m 









OCT 









"</» \v 



. 









. 


















■ 



w 



^ y*' 



c 7&- \V" 















%■ V* 









- 






'OO^ 












k > * > 






<\ V 



*+ J 


















V 




•7*, 



7 ^/-* 












•?,. 









*o. 



^ 



V I B * 



% . 





















'■■' 









> 
^ 



vOc> 






























s 







KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS 
ILLUSTRATED 

BY A PAST CHANCELLOR, 




J^nll |(llfu$trafei! Ifppfsitian 



THREE RANKS OF THE ORDER, 



WITH THE ADDITION OF THE 



AMENDED, PERFECTED AND AMPLIFIED THIRD RANK. 




CHICAGO, ILL, 
EZRA A, COOK & CO., PUBLISHERS. 

188 0, 




KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS 
ILLUSTRATED 

Jfi JpH llliwfrcttctl 1f|xf 0f$itt0it 



CEREMONIES OF THE THREE DEGREES 



SUBORDINATE LODGE. 






CHICAGO, ILL. 
EZRA A. COOK & CO., PUBLISHERS 



il 



1878. 



H S / 2. 3 1 



Entered According to Act of Congress in the year 18"<7. 

By Ezra A. Cook & Co., 

In the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington, D. C. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



Page. 

Preface 4 

Diagram of Lodge Room 6 

Qualifications and Titles of Officers 7 

Positions of Officers in the Lodge Room 7 

Opening Ceremonies 8 

Opening Prayer by Prelate 8 

Opening Ode 9 

Order of Business 13 

Closing Ceremonies 13 

Closing Prayer 14 

Closing Ode . , 14 

Arrangement of The Altar in different Ranks 15 

Initiation, First or Rank of Page 18 

Administering Obligation, First Rank (Illustrated ) 20 

Obligation, Rank of Page 21 

Initiatory Anthem 22 

Signs of Courtesy, Recognition, Caution, Distress 24-26 

Grip, First Rank 27 

Remarks on Rank of Page 30 

Form of Passing from Rank of Page to Esquire 31 

Initiation, Second or Armorial Rank of Esquire 33 

Obligation Rank of Esquire 35 

Signs, Countersigns and Grip, Rank of Esquire 37 

Address to Candidate 40 

Remarks on Rank of Esquire 41 

Form of Passing from Rank of Esquire to Knight 42 

Advance your Shields and Parry 44 

Initiation, Third or Rank of Knight 45 

Obligation, Rank of Knight 48 

Signs, Countersign and Grip, Third Rank 52—55 

Remarks on Rank of Knight 58 

Initiation, Amended. Perfected and Amplified Third Rank 59 

Diagram of Taking Obligation Amplified Third Rank 63 

Obligation Amended, Perfected and Amplified Third Rank 64 

Council of Ten 67 

Diagram of Lodge Room arranged for Council of Ten . . . 68 

Ceremonies in opening Council of ten 69 

Dissolving Council of Ten (Diagram) 73 

Visor Signs , 79 

Countersign and Grip, Third Rank 80 

Ceremonies for Supreme or Grand Official Visitations 85 

Remarks on Amplified Third Rank 86 

Knights of Pythias at a Glance (Signs, Grips etc, of ail the Ranks) ... 90 



PUBLISHERS' PREFACE. 

"At the devil's booth are all things sold; 
Bach ounce of dross costs its ounce of gold, 
lor a cap and bells our lives we pay, 
Bubbles we earn with a whole soul's tasking, 
'Tis heaven alone that is given away; 
'Tis only God may be had for the asking.' 1 

LOWKLL. 

Little did we think, when reading in youth, of the follies, false 
methods and narrow views of the Knighthood of the "Dark Ages" 
so truthfully caricatured in the History of Don Quixote; mental- 
ly contrasting them with Christian civilization founded on the 
Holy Bible ; that in our time in our own land an army of Knights 
more foolish, blind and guilty than those burlesqued by Don 
Quixote would voluntarily enroll their names and parade the 
streets of our cities. 

Like Masonry and Odd Fellowship, this order makes use of the 
Bible but like the former it puts the implements of the order on 
top of the Bible (the first rank excepted.) The fact that the very 
name u Book of Law" is the term which the great apostle of 
Masonry, Albert G. Mackey applies to the sacred book on the 
altar which he says: "is that volume which by the religion of 
the countiy is believed to contain the revealed w ill of the Grand 
Architect of the uaiverse," (Mackey's Jurisprudence p. 33,) 
gives good reason for the conclusion that this term was chosen in 
order that the Bible may be conveniently replaced by any other 
sacred book when the order is established in heathen or Mo- 
hamedan countries. 

Historical Sketch op the Knights of Pythias. 

This secret order which now claims a membership of 100,000 
and whose supreme council of the world "composed only of 
Officers and Ex-Officers of Grand Lodges, which Aug. 14th, 1877, 
met in Cleveland, Ohio, about 2,000 strong, had its origin in the 
fertile brain of an ambitious adventurer by the name of J. H. 
Rathbone. As of the Grange,Washington, D. C, was its birth place 
and Washington Lodge No. 1, was formally organized Feb. 23d, 
L864,though a preliminary meeting for the purpose was held the 
19th, four days before. The ritual prepared previously by 
J. 11. Rathbone, was adopted and a committee was appointed to 
prepare an addition thereto with Rathbone as Chairman. In four 
days more they met again adopted the additional ritual and ap- 
pointed a committee to prepare still more ritual which with some 
revisions formed the three Ranks of the order. March 24th, steps 
were taken to organize a Grand Lodge, and April 8th, the Grand 
Lodge of the District of Columbia was organized and they were 
ready to sell Secrets at wholesale and retail. 

Whether the founder of the order, J. H. Rathbone, had expected 
to have the monopoly of the business of selling the Secrets of the 
order or not he seems Jo have been displeased at the formation or 
perhaps the management of the Grand Lodge, for he resigned his 
office as Venerable Patriarch and even his membership in the 



order, but two weeks afterwards. He is soon heard of as again 
revising the ritual of the order. 

Within four months after the organization of Washington 
Lodge No. 1, two other lodges had been started there and 
one in Alexandria, Va. 

Within six months from the formation of the "Mother Lodge" 
it with all but one of the children were dead and the Grand Lodge 
also. In 1866 the members of Franklin Lodge No. 2, Washington 
D. C, the only surviving lodge started another lodge in the city 
and the Grand Lodge was also, resusitated soon after. July 1867 
th3 total membership was still but 694, but in three months 
increased to 1330, and March 10th the District of Columbia 
Grand Lodge issued charters for the Grand Lodges of Maryland 
and New Jersey. 

August 11th, 1868 the Supreme Grand Lodge of the world was 
organized at Washington D C, and at its first session afterwards 
at Richmond, Va., March 9th, 18G9 the membership was reported 
at over 35,000 with nearly 200 lodges, eight Grand Lodges and an 
income of $194,573,25, and the year following had increased to 
52,000 members, 465 lodges and sixteen Grand Lodges, the total 
receipt being $541,219,34, at the close of the year 1870 the mem- 
bership is reported at 84,000. 

With this apparent prosperity there had been some fierce 
wrangling, quite at variance with the great friendship the order 
professes to inculcate. Even the Civil Courts were several times 
appealed to, to decide questions of disputed authority and 1870 
found two Grand Lodges in both Maryland and New Jersey and 
a bitter war in the Supreme Lodge of the World, on the question 
of Rathbone's new rank and a new Obligation ordered by the 
Supreme Lodge to be administered to every member of the 
order, which thousands refused to take. 

For several years the order has been used by political tricksters 
nine-tenths of them high Masons to such an extent as to thorough- 
ly disgust its most intelligent members in many localities and 
its managers are forced to admit a net loss of 5,942 during the 
past year, wdiile it is undoubtedly true that a very large number 
still reported as members will never again enter their "Castle 
Halls." 

That this little volume may be blessed of God in the utter 
demolition of this dark order is the hope and prayer of 

The Publishers'. 



DIAGRAM, 

Showing the shape of the stations, which are designated in the Lodge by the 
following colors: Chancellor Commander, red: Vice Chancellor, blue; Prelate, 
black: Past Chancellor, yellow. The altar here shown is arranged for the 
Third or Chivalric Rank of Knight. The Initials F. C. B. shown on the 
shields on sides of Altar stand for the pass-words of the three ranks- 
Friendship, Caution, Bravery. 



Keeper of Records & 
Seal, 



Cha'i. ilm. 



Master at A* ma 



r»ast Chan . 



Inner Qnard. 






Master of Finance & 
Master of Exchequer 







KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS ILLUSTRATED, 



Qualifications and Titles of Officers. 

1st. Past Chancellor. — Acquired by service in having passed 
through the executive office and chair of the Lodge, and which 
title and rank he shall hold thereafter. 

2d. Chancellor Commander. — Attained by election : which 
latter title of Commander shall only be held and worn while the 
principal and executive officer of the Lodge. Service as Chan- 
cellor Commander to end of term entitles to the rank of Past 
Chancellor ever afterwards. 

3rd. Vice Chancellor.— Attained by election. 

4th. Prelate. — Attained by election. 

5th. Master of Exchequer. — Attained by election. 

6th. Master of Finance. — Attained by election. 

7th. Keeper of Records and Seal. — Attained by election. 

8th. Master at Arms. — By election or appointment. 

9th. Inner Guard. — By appointment. 

10th. Outer Guard. — By appointment. 

Position of Officers in The Lodge. 

Past Chancellor. — On the right hand side of the Lodge, mid- 
way or center of room, looking from Chancellor Commander's 
station to the Vice Chancellor's station at the opposite end. 

Chancellor Commander. — At the head or end of the room. 

Vice Chancellor. — At opposite or lower end of room. 

Prelate. — On left hand side of the Chancellor C< >mmander, 
at center of the Lodge, and in a direct line as drawn from the 
Past Chancellor, over or through the Altar, opposite the position 
of the Past Chancellor. 

Master of Exchequer, ) At head of Lodge-room and on the 

Master of Finance, J left hand of the Chancellor Com. 

Keeper of Records and Seal, ) At head of Lodge-room 
Master at Arms, J and on the right of the 

Chancellor Commander. 
Inner Guard.— At inner door and near the Vice Chancellor, 
Outer Guard. — At outer door. 



OPENING CEREMONIES. 

At precisely the hour appointed for the convening of the Lodge, if 
a quorum be present, the Chancellor Commander seeing that the 
members are clothed in proper regalia, or insignia of the Order, 
and after notifying the Master at arms to satisfy himself that all 
present are duly qualified as members in good standing of the 
Order, and in possession of, and with the proper rank and Semi 
Annual Pass word gives one rap with his gavel or sword hilt. 

Chancellor Commander. — " It is my will and pleasure that 

Lodge, No. — , Knights of Pythias, now come to order, in this 
1 Castle Hall,' for the dispatch of such business and work as may 
be brought, before it. The officers and members will give me their 
aid and counsel in further promulgating the bonds of Friendship 
that unite us, using due Caution in the transaction of any busi- 
ness that is presented, and with Bravery accepting all issues 
which, with strict impartiality and fairness, w r e may be called to 
pass upon. Let Harmony, Peace and Unity prevail. 

"Brother Inner Guard, you will order the Outer Guard to clear 
the ante-room, close the doors and permit no one to enter until 
the Lodge is duly and regularly opened, and he notified of the 
same through you by me." 

Inner Guard to Outer Guard (opens door). — " It is the will and 
pleasure of the Chancellor Commander that you permit no one 
to enter until the Lodge is duly and regularly opened, and you 
are notified of the same by him through me." 

Outer Guard. — " The commands of the Chancellor Commander 
shall be obeyed." 

Inner Guard to Chancellor Commander (closes and locks inner 
door). — " Chancellor Commander, the Outer Guard has received 
your commands and will implicitly obey them." 

Chancellor Commander (two raps — all rise). — " The brethren 
will attend while the Prelate implores the blessings of Deity." 
OPENING PRAYER BY PRELATE. 

11 We humbly invoke Thy blessing, thou Supreme Ruler of the 
Universe, upon the officers and members of this Lodge. Grant, 
we beseech Thee, thine aid in conducting the business for which 
we are here assembled ; and may it please Thee to shower divine 
grace upon us in this our convention. Let harmony and brotherly 
love prevail among, and finally permit us to assemble around 
Thy throne at the last great day, a happy and united brotherhood, 



9 

elected to share Thy heavenly home. Hear, we beseech Thee, and 
answer us in peace, for Thine own sake. Amen." 
(All respond.) Amen. 

OPENING ODE. 
Great God, to Thee we raise 
Our hopeful song of praise — 

Grant us Thy love. 
Let us in friendship be ; 
Let us harmonious see, 
Our Order extended be, 
All nations o'er. 

Let brothers hand in hand 
True to each other stand 

Throughout all time. 
Then when life's labor's o'er, 
Leaving Time's earthly shore, 
May we meet to part no more 

In Heaven above. 

Chancellor Commander.— Three raps. (All seated.) 
Chancellor Commander (one rap) "Brother Inner Guard." 

Inner Guard (rising promptly). — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — Brother Inner Guard, you will re- 
lieve the Brother Outer Guard and have him present himself at 
your station." 

Inner Guard retires and relieves the Outer Guard, who imme- 
diately presents himself at the station of the Inner Guard and 
says : 

" Chancellor Commander, the Outer Guard reports for duty." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother Outer Guard," 

Outer Guard. — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — " Where is your station, and what 
are your duties ? " 

Outer Guard (standing). — " Outside of the inner, and to take 
charge of the outer door. My duties are to see that the brethren 
clothe themselves in proper regalia or insignia of the Order in 
the ante-room, and are duly qualified to enter the inner door; to 
take charge of the regalia, and perform such other duties as the 
Chancellor Commander may direct,' ' 



10 

Chancellor Commander. — " Brother Outer" Guard, you will now 
resume your proper station and relieve the Brother Inner Guard." 

Inner Guard returns, assumes his station, and says : 

" Chancellor Commander, the Inner Guard reports from his 
station." 

Chancellor Commander. — " Brother Inner Guard." 

Inner Guard (standing). — " Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — " Where is your station, and what 
are your duties in this Lodge ? " 

Inner Guard. — " At the inner door near tlie Vice Chancellor. 
My duties are to allow no brother to enter the Lodge who is not 
clothed in proper regalia or insignia of the Order, and does not 
give the correct raps and pass words, and to obey such other 
orders as may be communicated to me by the Chancellor Com- 
mander." 

(Inner Guard remains standing), 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — " Brother Master at Arms." 

Master at Arms (rising promptly and facing the C. C). — " Chan- 
cellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — " Where is your station and what 
are your duties in this Lodge V " 

Master at Arms. — " At the right and in Iront of the Chancel- 
lor Commander. My duties are to examine all present prior to 
the opening of the Lodge in any rank, and report the result of 
said examination to the Chancellor Commander; to prepare and 
accompany all Retainers, Pages or Esquires during the ceremo- 
nies of initiation, proving or charging in the different grades of 
rank, and perform such other duties as the Chancellor Comman- 
der may direct." (Master at Arms remains standing.) 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — " Brother Keeper of Rec- 
ords and Seal." 

Keeper of Records and Seal (standing). — "Chancellor Com- 
mander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Where is your station and what 
are your duties in this Lodge?" 

Keeper of Records and Seal. — "At the right of the Chancellor 
Commander. My duties arc to keep a just and impartial record 
of nil the proceedings of this Lodge, conduct all its correspond- 
ence, have charge of the Seal and Archives, make out semi-annual 
returns of the work and business of this Lodge, and transmit the 



11 

same to the Grand Lodge ; deliver any funds, documents, or other 
Lodge properly coming into my hands to the proper officer, and 
to faithfully perform all other duties prescribed by the Constitu- 
tion and By-Laws of this Lodge." (Keeper of Records and Seal 
remains standing.) 
Chaccellor Commander (one rap/. — "Brother Master of Finance." 
Master of Finance (standing). — "Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander. — "Where is your station and what are 
your duties in this Lodge ?" 

Master of Finance. — "At the left of the Chancellor Comman- 
der. My duties are too keep an accurate account between this 
Lodge and its members ; notify all brethren who are in arrears ; 
receive all monies and immediately pay the g ame over to the 
Master of Exchequer, taking his receipt therefor; to make out 
and present to this Lodge my report at the expiration of the 
semi-annual term, and to perform all other duties required of me 
by the Constitution and Ritual of the Order." (Master of Finance 
remains standing.) 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brotner Master of Ex- 
chequer." 
Master of Exchequer (standing). — "Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander. — "Where is your station and what 
are your duties in this Lodge ?" 

Master of Exchequer .—"At the left of the Chancellor Com- 
mander. My duties are to receive from the Master of Ftnancj 
all Lodge monies received by him, giving my receipt therefor, 
keeping an exact and true account of all monies so received, 
making no disbursements thereof unless authorized so to do by 
the Lodge under an order from the Chancellor Commander, at- 
tested by the Keeper of Records and Seal, and to make a correct 
report to this Lodge at the end of every semi-annual term " 
(Master of Exchequer remains standing.) 
Chancellor Commander (one rap) — "Brother Prelate.'' 
Prelate (standing). — "Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander. — "Where is your station and what 
are your duties in this Lodge ?" 

Prelate. — "On the left of the Chancellor Commander and oppo- 
site the Altar, forming one end of the base line of the double tri- 
angle. My duties are to perform all obligatory ceremonials in 
the conferring of the several grades of rank ; offer up invocations 



12 

9 

to, and ask blessings from the Deity upon our labors and brother- 
hood, and perform such other duties required of me by the Con- 
stitution, Laws and usuages of the order, or as may be directed 
from time to time by the Chancellor Commander of this Lodge." 
(Prelate remains standing.) 
Chancellor Commander (one rap). — " Brother Vice Chancellor." 
Vice Chancellor (standing).— ''Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander. — " Where is your station and what are 
your duties in this Lodge?" 

Vice Chancellor. — " In the second official chair, forming the 
apex of the second triangle, opposite to and facing the Chancellor 
Commander. My duties are to have charge of the second tri- 
angle and assist the Chancellor Commander in preserving order 
and decorum in the Lodge, aid in conducting the ceremonies of 
the several grades of rank, appoint a minority of all committees, 
(unless otherwise ordered by the Lodge,) preside in the absence 
of the Chancellor Commander, and have charge of the wicket." 
(Vice Chancellor remains standing.) 
Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brother Past Chancellor." 
Past Chancellor (standing). — "Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander. — " Where is your station and what are 
your duties in this Lodge V " 

Past Chancellor. — " On the right of the Chancellor Commander, 
opposite the Altar, forming the terminal of the base line of the 
double triangle. My duties, to have special supervision of all 
preparations and be held responsible for all floor- work or cere- 
monies in conferring the several grades of rank, and such other 
duties as the Chancellor Commander may direct." 

Chancellor Commander.—" Where is the statio*n and what are 
the duties of the Chancellor Commander of this Lodge?" 

Past Chancellor. — "The station of the Chancellor Commander 
is in the first official chair, forming the head of the first triangle 
and Lodge. It is the duty of the Chancellor Commander to pre- 
side over and have charge of both triangles, the officers, members 
and visitors of his Lodge, preserve order during its session, 
appoint a majority of all committees (unless otherwise ordered 
by the Lodge), decide all questions of order without debate, sub- 
ject, however, to an appeal to the Lodge, and perform such other 
duties appertaining to his office as may be prescribed in the 
work of the Order and By-Laws of his Lodge." (Past Chancel- 
lor remains standing.) 



13 

Chancellor Commander two raps; (rising to his feet; all rise). 
— " All of which duties I am under solemn obligation to perform 
with justice and impartiality; in view of which I earnestly ask 
the kind co-operation of the officers and members of this Lodge. 
Let not anger or dissension arise in our midst, but let us devote 
our whole attention, our entire zeal, to the labor before us ; and 
finally, let lessons of Obedience be inculcated, Strength be our 
motto, Friendship our watchword, and Caution our guiding star. 
Let harmony and peace prevail." 

Chancellor Commander. — " I now declare Lodge, No. — , 

duly opened for the transaction of such business as shall legally 
come before it. Brother Master at Arms, you will arrange the 
Altar." 

(The Master at Arms goes to the Altar, opens the Book and 
places the swords of Defence in proper position, (see instructions 
for arrangement of the Altar in the different grades of rank, page 
15) and returns to his place.) 

Chancellor Commander (addressing Inner Guard). — " Brother 
Inner Guard, you will communicate to the Outer Guard that this 
Lodge is now open, and to admit all brethren duly qualified to 
enter." 

Inner Guard (opens door and goes out). — "Brother Outer 
Guard, it is the order of the Chancellor Commander that you 
admit all brethren duly qualified to enter, as the Lodge is regu- 
larly opened." (Returns and shuts the door.) 

Inner Guard. — " Chancellor Commander, your commands have 
been obeyed." 

Chancellor Commander gives three raps, seating the Lodge. 

ORDER OF BUSINESS, 

1. Calling Roll of Officers. 

2. Reading Minutes. 

3. Reception of Petitions. 

4. Reports of Committees. 

5. Balloting for Candidates. 

6. Conferring Grades of Rank. 

7. Communications and Bills Read. 

8. New Business. 

9. Has any brother any thing to offer for the good of the Order f 
10. Closing in due form. 

CLOSING CEREMONIES. 

Chancellor Commander. — " There being no further business* 
before the Lodge, we will proceed to close. The brethren will 
attend while the Prelate implores the blessing of Deity on our 
deliberations." (Two raps.) 



Note.— If there are candidates in waiting or other business, these clos- 
ing ceremonies are deferred till the Lodge is ready to dose. 



14 

CLOSING PRAYER BY THE PRELATE. 

"Vouchsafe Thy blessing, our Heavenly Father, on the events 
of this evening. Be with us during the coming week. Shield 
us from all harm, and finally permit us to be with Thee on the 
last great day, a united brotherhood, elected to share the blessings 
of life eternal in the heavens. Hear and answer us in peace for 
Thy great name's sake. Amen." 

(All respond.) Amen. 

CLOSING ODE. 

May your slumbers be all blest 

When you close your eyes in rest; 

May the holy angels keep 

Vigils o'er you while you sleep. 

Sleep till rosy morning comes, 

With its light to bless your homes ; 

Bless the angels that will keep 

Vigils o'er you while you sleep. 
Goodnight. 
Chancellor Commander. — "Officers and brethren, we are now 
about to quit these portals to mingle again with the outer world. 
Let all of us endeavor to so regulate our conduct that it will 
bring credit upon ourselves and honor to our order. In conclu- 
sion, permit me to return you my sincere thanks as Chancellor 
Commander, for the kind assistance you have rendered in con- 
ducting the business of this convention. And now, by virtue of 

the power vested in me as Chancellor Commander, I declare 

Lodge, No. , duly closed until our next regular convention, 

(except in case of necessity, when all shall receive due notice,) 
and then I hope to see as many of you present as can possibly 
make it convenient to attend." 

"Brother Master at Arms, you will close the Book of Law and 
secure the Swords of Defense. Brother Inner Guard you will 
now permit the brethren to retire, and inform the Outer Guard 
that the lodge is closed." (One rap.) 

ARRANGEMENT -OF THE ALTAR IN THE DIFFERENT 
GRADES OF RANK. 

When the Lodge is called to-order by the Chancellor Comman- 
der, there will be lying upon the altar a Bible, whick is closed, 



15 

and resting on it will be two swords, hilts together, and handles 
towards the Chancellor Commander's station. When the Chan- 
cellor Commander orders the Master at Arms to 4< arrange the al- 
tar," he will go there and arrange it as lollows : 



THE ALTAR IN THE INITIATORY RANK OF PAGE. 

The Book opened the same as in the 
Chivalric Rank of Knight, and wheth- 
er on the altar or Coffin rests on 
the two Swords, which are crossed un 
derneath the Book, with the hilts or 
handles toward the Chancellor Com- 
mander and points towards the Vice 
Chancellor. (While initiating, the han- 
dles should be towards the Prelate and 
points towards 1he candidate.) 




THE ALTAR IN THE ARMORIAL RANK OF ESQUIRE. 



The Book opened, the same as in the 
Chivalric Rank of Knight, with the 
two swords laying on it — crossed—* 
with the handles towards the Chancel- 
lor Commander and points towards the 
Vice Chancellor. 




THE ALTAR IN THE CHIVALRIC RANK OF KNIGHT. 



The Book opened about the middle 
so as to lay square, and one sword lay- 
ing diagonally across and over it, with 
the handle — or hilt — towards the foot of 
the room — or Vice Chancellor's station 
— and point towards the head of the 
room, or Chancellor Commander's sta- 
tion. 





INITIATION. 

FIRST, OR INITIATORY RANK OF PAGE. 

The candidate i3 brought into the 
ante-room, and as soon as his presence 
is known the utmost silence must be 
maintained in the Lodge. The Chan- 
cellor Commander will delegate one or 
two members to prepare the properties, 
under the supervision and control of 
the Past Chancellor ; the rest of the 
lodge, after clothing themselves in their 

Masks and Black Robes, remain seated. Loud talk or heavy- 
walking must be avoided, as the solemnity of the initiation de- 
pends entirely on the strict silence that pervades the room. The 
Master at Arms retires to the anteroom and prepares the candidate. 
Preparation for First, or Initiatory Rank of Page. 

The preparation consists in the candidate having his coat and 
vest removed, the White Robe put on and his eyes securely 
blindfolded, in which manner he is conducted to the door of the 
Lodge by the Master at Arms. Particular care should be taken 
that the Master at Arms or Outer Guard do not converse in a 
frivolous manner with the candidate while he is being prepared, 
but on the contrary a grave solemnity should mark the whole 
transaction. 

Master at Arms (gives one rap) ; Inner Guard (1 rap) ; Master 
at Arms (2 raps) ; Inner Guard (2 raps) Master at Arms (3 raps) ; 
• Inner Guard (3 raps). 

Inner Guard.— "Who comes here, and what do you desire ?" 

Master at Arms. — "The Master at Arms of this Lodge, with a 

stranger who desires to become a Retainer of, and asks to be ini- 
tiated into the mysteries of the First or Initiatory Rank of Page 
of this Chivalric Order." 

Inner Guard. — "Chancellor Commander, a stranger knocks for 
admission to these portals who desires to become a Retainer of, 
and asks to be initiated into the mysteries of the First or Initia- 
tory Rank of Page of this Chivalric Order." 

Chancellor Commander. — "It is my order, as Chancellor Com- 
mander, that you admit him without further challenge." 

(Inner Guard opens door.") 



17 

The Master at Arms enters with the candidate and conducts 
him around the room very slowly three times, (during which 
time the utmost silence must prevail, with the exception of the 
music, which should be of a solemn character,) and then halts 
before the chair of the Chancellor Commander. 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, a stranger stands 
before you, who desires to become a Retainer of, and asks to be 
initiated into the mysteries of the First or Initiatory Rank of 
Page in this ChivaJric Order.' ' 

Chancellor Commander (addressing the candidate.) — "Stranger, 
clad as you are, and devoid of the gift of sight, I ask you, as 
Chancellor Commander of this Lodge, is this your desire?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Before proceeding further with 
this ceremony, it is a duty incumbent upon me to propound to 
you several questions touching your qualifications to become a 
member of this Order in any Rank. I will therefore ask : Do 
you believe in the existence of a Supreme Being?'* 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you of sound bodily nealth ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Have you ever before applied to be 
come a member of the Order of Knights of Pythias ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Stranger, have you fully considered 
the weighty duties that will devolve upon you when once a mem- 
ber of this Order in any Rank that it may confer, or do you en 
ter these portals from mere idle curiosity ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "You are probably aware, and if not 
I will now inform you, that when you are duly become a mem- 
ber of, and progress in the Order of Knights of Pythias, that you 
are entitled to all the honors, benefits and privileges arising from 
the several Grades of Rank, as attained, that can in any way be 
bestowed upon you. Now, therefore, having given you these as- 
surances on my part, as Chancellor Commander, and in all sin. 
cerity and kindness, I ask you in the name of the order universal, 
what are we to expect from you in return ?" 

Candidate answers.— "Obedience," 



18 

Chancellor Commander. — "Such being your pledge, I ask, Are 
you willing to take upon yourself a solemn and binding obliga- 
tion to keep forever secret all that you may see or hear or here- 
after be instructed in, of the mysteries of this Order — an obliga- 
tion which we have all taken, and one which I, as Chancellor 
Commander, assure you will in no wise affect your religion or 
your politics ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you keenly sensible as to the 
solemnity, and willing to conform and live up to the require- 
ments of, an obligation of this character ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you aware that, once you have 
taken upon yourself this solemn and binding obligation, there is 
no receding from its demands?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Should you waver in your purpose, 
there is yet time to withdraw." (Pause.) "Do you still desire 
to proceed?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Master at Arms will conduct 
the stranger to the Prelate of this Lodge, who will administer to 
him the solemn and binding obligation of the First, or Initiatory 
Hank of Page, of this Chivalric Order." 

Master at Arms conducts stranger round the lodge three times, 
or until everything is prepared for administering the obligation. 
I inmediately upon leaving the station of the Chancellor Com- 
mander the attendants should, as noiselessly as possible, stand 
ready to turn down the lights very low, and to light the urns that 
are stationed at each end of the open coffin, containing' a com- 
plete human skeleton. As soon as all is in readiness the Master 
at Arms brings the candidate opposite and in front of the 
Prelate. 

Master at Arms. — "Prelate, by direction of the Chancellor 
Commander I present to you a stranger who desires to take upon 



19 

himself the solemn and binding obligation of the First, or Initia- 
tory Rank of Page, he having so signified his desire and willing- 
ness to conform thereto." 

Prelate (to candid ate).— "Stranger is this your desire?" 

Candidate answers. 

Prelate. — "Master at Arms, why is the stranger brought before 
me in this garb?" 

Master at Arms. — "To indicate the purity of his intentions, 
white being the emblem thereof." 

Prelate. — "I most willingly and cheerfully accept the emblem, 
indicating as it does, that purity of heart and rectitude of con- 
duct which are essential to obtain admission into this, the First, 
or Initiatory Rank and Grade of our Chivalric Order. Has the 
stranger been instructed as to the serious, solemn and binding 
obligation he is about to take upon himself?" 

Master at Anns.— "He has." 

Prelate.— "Stranger, is this so ?" - 

Candidate answers. 

- Prelate. — "Master at Arms, you will place the candidate in 
proper position, by his kneeling upon both knees, his left hand 
on the left breast, over his heart ; his right hand extended, palm 
down, and resting on the Book of Law and Swords of Defence." 
The Master at Arms causes the candidate to kneel by the side 
of the open coffin containing a human skeleton, the Prelate on 
the opposite side, and places his right hand on the Holy Bible, 
that rests on the (two) Swords of Defence which lie across the 
coffin and rest on it, handles of swords towards the Prelate, cross- 
ed with points towards the candidate, and his left hand on the 
left breast over his heart. The officers and members assembled 
around the Prelate all kneel, the members covering him with 
their lances, if so armed, until the candidate has assumed the ob- 
ligation, when the lances are raised to a perpendicular position, 
and remain so until he leaves the room. (See diagram.) 



20 



Keeper 



of EeoortU &\ \~ / \ 

Seal, 1 I*"/' ^' 



I Master of Finance & 
Master of Exchequer 



Master at A?A 




CANDIDATE TAKING OBLIGATION, FIRST, OR INITIATORY RANK. 

The cut shows the Prelate administering the obligation. The Chancellor 
Commander is at the head of the coffin, the Vice Chancellor at the foot, the 
Past Chancellor at the right of the candidate, the Master at Arms at the left, 
the Prelate opposite the candidate as shown. On each side of the Prelate is 
a Knight and the rest of the Knights kneel in rows in a semicircle back of 
the Prelate. 



31 

Master at Arms. — "Prelate, the candidate is duly prepared." 

Prelate. — "Stranger, as you are about to subscribe to an obli- 
gation of great solemnity, it is but just that you should be in 
rightful possession of all your mental faculties, and as by the 
rules of our order you have hitherto been deprived of sight, for 
reasons which must have been evident to you, the Master at Arms 
will now remove the bandage, that you may be able to see as well 
as to hear." 

Master at Arms removes bandage. Prelate kneels opposite ; 
the brethren kneeling in a half circle opposite and facing candi- 
date, with lowered lances. 

Prelate. — "You will now repeat after me:" 

OBLIGATION FIRST RANK. 

"I, (your name) in the presence of these true and tried brethren 
do most solemnly promise, declare and swear, that I will never 
reveal to the day of my death and will keep secret all the myste- 
ries of which I have been, or may be hereafter instructed in; and 
that I will keep forever sacred within the deep recesses of my 
heart, even in the sanctuary thereof, veiled from all human eyes, 
all the passwords, grips, signs and countersigns, together with 
each and every secret that I may hereafter be instructed in ; ex- 
cept it be in a regular Lodge, duly instituted and working under 
proper legal authority, of the Order of Knights of Pythias, or to 
an authorized officer, or duly qualified member of the Order, of 
proper rank; and to the latter only after strict and satisfactory ex- 
amination, sufficient to warrant my conversing with him or them 
on or about the same. 

"I further promise and declare, that I will ever and always re- 
lieve a distressed brother; that I will warn him of any clanger 
which I may know to threaten him, and will fly to his succor 
and aid whenever and wherever I may be convinced by eye or 
ear that he is in need thereof. 

"I further declare and say, that I am not now, nor will I ever 
so long as I remain a member of the Order of Knights of Pythias, 
become a member of, or affiliate with any body,uncler whatsoever 
name, claiming to be a higher, a branch, or side degree of the 
Knights of Pythias, unless under the control, guidance of and 



22 

fully recognized as such by the Supreme Lodge Knights of Pyth- 
ias of the World. 

"I further promise and declare, that I will observe all the rules 
and regulations required by the Constitution and By-Laws of 
this or any other Lodge of this Order that I may become a mem- 
ber of, and to the best of my ability will live up to all the require- 
ments of the Order. 

"In evidence of which I herewith pledge my sacred word of 
honor. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in this my first 
and binding obligation in the Order of Knights of Pythias." 

Prelate. — "In token of your sincerity you will now kiss the 
Book that is open before you, which is our Book of Law, and is 
the Holy Bible." 

Candidate does so, and while peforming this act the following 
is chanted : 

INITIATORY ANTHEM. 
"Mid the deep hush that o'er the earth is creeping, 

Father, I come to thee ; 
With humbleness of heart I kneel entreating — 
Be merciful to me." 
When through, the Prelate, Chancellor Commander, Vice 
Chancellor, Master at Arms and candidate all rise, (the rest re- 
main kneeling), and while standing in their different positions> 
the Prelate says : 

Prelate. — "Stranger, you have taken upon yourself an obliga- 
tion of great solemnity. It is perhaps needless for me to enjoin 
upon you the great necessity of your living up to, in each and 
eveiy particular, all the requirements therein contained. You 
have pledged your most solemn word of honor— all that man can 
pledge of inestimable worth. You have called upon the Supreme 
Ruler of the Universe to help you in keeping inviolate the trust 
confided to you. As a retainer, (for by that title I can now ad- 
dress you), I feel that you will keep sacred this obligation, and I 
have every reason to believe that you will become a faithful 
friend, a good companion and an exemplary Page. This obliga- 
tion you have taken over the Skeleton* of our honored and 
revered patron saint, Pythias. This you can never forget. With 






*The word here in optional with the Prelate. He may use either of the 
following words: Emblem, Symbol, or Skeleton. 



23 

pleasure I present you with a sprig of myrtle, emblematic of 
Friendship, which is the motto of this Rank. This you will re- 
tain carefully until you may be called upon to relinquish it. 
Finally, I would call your attention to the arrangement of the 
Book of Law and Swords of Defence in this Rank. (Explains 
them. See page 15.) 

Prelate, (addressing Master at Arms).— "Master at Arms, you 
will now conduct the Retainer to the ante-room and prepare him 
to receive further and full instruction, that will entitle him to 
the Rank and Grade of Page." 

All remain kneeling till they retire from the room. The lights 
are then turned up, the Coffia removed, flambeaus extinguished, 
etc. The Master at Arms prepares the candidate, by removing 
the White Robe and investing him with his coat and vest. He 
is then brought back to the door. 

Master at Arms ; one rap ; two raps ; three raps. 

Inner Guard. — u Who comes here ?" 

Master at Arms.— "Retainer John Brown, who is desirous oi 
receiving further knowledge of the mysteries and work of the 
First, or Initiatory Rank of Page in this Chivalric Order." 

Inner Guard. — "Chancellor Commander,Retainer John Brown 
applies for further instruction in the work of the First, or Ini- 
tiatory Rank of Page in this Chivalric Order." 

Chancellor Commander. — "As Chancellor Commander of this 
Lodge, it is my order that you admit him without further chal- 
lenge." 

Inner Guard (opening the door).— "Master at Arms, it is the 
order of the Chancellor Commander that he be admitted without 
further challenge." 

The Master at Arms enters with, and conducts the candidate 
twice around the Lodge, and halts before the Vice Chancellor. 

Master at Arms. — "Vice Chancellor, I present you Retainer 
John Brown, for further instruction in the work of the First, or 
Initiatory Rank of Page in this Chivalric Order." 

Vice Chancellor. — "Has he conformed to the Law and taken 
the obligation ?" 

Master at Arms. — "He has." 

Vice Chancellor. — "How am I as Vice Chancellor, to be oon» 



24 

vinced that he has subscribed and will conform to the obliga- 
ion of this, the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page in this Chival- 
ric Order ?" 

Master at Arms. — "He is in possession of the sprig of myrtle." 

Vice Chancellor. — "To those of the First, or Initiatory Rank of 
Page in this Chivalric Order, what is the myrtle emblematic 
of?" 

Master at Arms. — "Friendship, like unto that which bound 
Damon to Pythias." 

Vice Chancellor. — "What does it teach?" 

Master at Arms. — "Universal Fraternity and Benevolence, es- 
pecially to those of the different grades of rank of our Chival- 
ric Order, and to all worthy people, wherever existing." 

Vice Chancellor. — "How does it instruct us?" 

Master at Arms. — "It instructs us that, in the mind of a Page 
of this Order, those virtues should be as expansive as the azure 
arch of heaven, as binding as his obligation and pure as was that 
of our great prototypes, Damon and Pythias." 

Vice Chancellor. — "Retainer John Brown I cheerfully accept 
the symbol as an earnest of your intentions, (takes it from him,) 
and will proceed to instruct you in the raps, secret signs, coun- 
tersigns and passwords of this the First, or Initiatory Rank of 
Page, to which pay particular attention, as upon your knowl- 
edge of them will in part depend your future progress in this 
Order." 

"Upon coming into the Lodge, you will knock at the outer 
door in any, or a usual manner. It will be opened by the Outer 
Guard, who Avill admit you to the anteroom. After clothing 
yourself in the proper regalia, or insignia of this Rank, which 
is Blue, you will apply at the in her door, and give first one, then 
two, then three raps in this order, which will be arrswered in a 
like manner from within. You will then give your name and 
Rank, together with the name and number of your Lodge, and 
this password, Friend (whispers it in his ear,) which will admit 
you. You will then advance to the center of the room and sa- 
lute the Chancellor Commander in this manner : 

SIGN OF FRIENDSHIP OR COURTESY. 

Form a link with the second finger of each hand, the back of 
the left hand up and the back ot the right hand forward; the 
forearms forming the base of a triangle. [See cut,] 




25 

"This is called the sign of Friendship or Courtesy, and is al- 
ways used on entering or retiring from the Lodge when open in 
the Rank of Page. It is recognized by the Chancellor Com- 
der by giving the same sign or by a wave of the hand." 

"There are three other signs, (in which, while instructing, you 
will please follow me.)" 



THE SIGN OF RECOGNITION 

Is given thus: Place your right thumb 
near the end of your two first fingers of same 
hand as though holding a pen to write, then 
smooth the hair back over the right ear with 
the two fingers, nails next to the head, three 
times, and is answered by the person saluted 
with the left hand in same manner. 



The Sign of Caution, which is given in two ways, namely, 
audibly and inaudibly, is as follows : 





INAUDIBLE SIGN OF CAUTION. 

Raise right hand and with thumb and fore- 
finger squeeze the wings of the nose. This is 
done three times, noiselessly, in quick succession 
drawing the hand six or eight inches from the 
nose after each squeeze. 

AUDIBLE SIGN OF CAUTION. 

Made in the same way as Inaudible Sign, but 
to attract attention give a quick snuff each time 
as thumb and finger are being withdrawn from 
the nose. 

Answer. — Same as sign. 



The Sign of Distress is given in this manner: 



26 




5ht 



SIGN OF DISTRESS. 

Strike the hands together three times, right 
hand uppermost. 

There is a hailing word in connection with the 
Sign of Distress, w T hich is nomad, (Damon back- 
wards). 

Answer. — Damon . 



Vice Chancellor (addressing Master at Arms). — "The Master 
at Arms will now conduct the Page to our Chancellor Com- 
mander for final instruction." 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, under instruction 
of the Vice Chancellor, I present you Page John Brown for fin- 
al instruction and examination in that Rank." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Has the Page been taught the 
Signs and Passwords that will indicate his Hank as a Page?" 

Master at Arms. — "He has been instructed therein by the Vice 
Chancellor." 

Chancellor Commander.— -"Page John Brown, as an evidence 
of the attention you have paid in what you have been instructed 
by the Vice Chancellor, you will be kind enough to give me the 
Sign of Friendship or Courtesy of this Rank?" 

Candidate forms a link with second finger of each hand, fore- 
arms forming base of a triangle. 

Chancellor Commander. — "How is it recognized by the 
Chair?" 

Candidate.— "Chancellor Commander answers by same sign or 
by wave of his hand." 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Sign of Recognition ?" 

Candidate quickly passes two first fingers of right hand, with 



ball of thumb near their end and nails next to head, back over 
right ear three times. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Its answer ?" 

Candidate. — "Sign made with left hand in same manner." 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Sign of Caution in both ways ?" 

Candidate. — "Thumb and forefinger drawn from nose three 
times, if for audible sign snuffing air, if for inaudible sign not 
doing so." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Its answer?" 

Candidate. — "The same." 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Sign of Distress?" 

Candidate. — "Strike hands together three times, right hand up 
permost." 

Chancellor Commander. — "In the absence of being able to 
use it, what do you do ?" 

Candidate. — "Use word Komad, which is Damon backwards." 

Chancellor Commander. — "What is the answer?" 

Candidate. — "Damon." 

Chancellor Commander. — "It now only remains for me to in- 
struct you in the Grip and use of the Gavel or Truncheon of au 
thority. The Grip is given in this manner/ ' 



n~ 




GRIP, FIRST RANK. 

Each extend the right hand, opening the fingers between the 
second and third as shown in upper cut, and grasp each other by 
the first two fingers, closing the other fingers as shown in lower 
cut. 

Chancellor Commander. — "There is a word or cover key con- 



28 

nected with this grip which I will show you how to arrive at." 

The Chancellor Commander and Master at Arms holding each 
other by the grip engage in the following colloquy: 

Chancellor Commander. — "Say what is this ?" 

Master at Arms. — "A good thing." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Most people would say so." 

Master at Arms. — "Some would. " 

Chancellor Commander. — "O, would they f" 

Master at Arms. — "No doubt." 

The first letters of each sentence spell the word Samson; the 
name of the grip, which means Strength as its name indicates." 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Gavel is an instrument made 
use of to preserve order, call the Lodge to their feet and seat them. 
(One rap), one rap calls the Lodge to order, and in opening or 
closing calls up the officers addressed. (Two raps), two raps 
calls the Lodge to their feet. (Three raps), three raps seats the 
Lodge." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Do you remember having heard 

these raps before, and if so, how and when are they used?" 

Candidate answers and they are again explained to him by 
Chancellor Commander." 

The knocks at the inner door to gain admission to the Lodge 
when open in the first rank : The brother wishing to gain ad- 
mission gives (1) rap; Inner Guard (1) rap; brother (2) raps: 
Inner Guard (2) ; brother (3) ; Inner Guard (3). Inner Guard then 
opens the wicket and the brother whispers his name and the word 
Friend to the Inner Guard who closes the wicket and reports his 
name to the Chancellor Commander who directs that he be ad- 
mitted. In case it is a visitor from some other Lodge he will 
give his own name, the name and number of his Lodge and the 
password Friend. 

Chancellor Commander. — "You have now received all the in- 
struction that can be given you in this, the First, or Initiatory 
Rank of Page. It will be necessary for you to become profi- 
cient in all the secret work, so that you can make yourself 
known to members as having received the First, or Initiatory 
Kauk of Page of this order. 



29 

"In conclusion, I nave a few words to say touching the motto 
of this degree : Friendship has for ages been looked upon as the 
corner stone of every secret society. For the purpose of practi- 
cally testing the great principle of fellowship, numerous orders 
have been established over the entire globe. Our honored pat- 
ron, the valiant knight from whom our order takes its name, gave 
a most heroic example of pure Friendship, that the whole world 
might follow. Confined, at his own request, in a loathsome dun- 
geon, a hostage f3r Damon> that his friend might see his wife and 
child ere death snatched him from them forever ; the cruel ty- 
rant that had condemned the friend of Pythias to the block, gave 
him but six short hours to live. Damon's wife and child were 
leagues away. Mounted on a swift steed, he flew to them ; and 
when he had given them the last fond embrace, he starts to return, 
and finds that his slave, to save his life, had slain his steed. The 
hour approaches, the dread moment has arrived, and Pythias is 
brought to the scaffold to suffer for his friend. Does he falter 
there ? No ! Does he murmur ? No ! but with his face all ra- 
diant with smiles, exclaims : 4 'Tis sweet to die for those we love.' 
At the last moment Damon arrives, and Pythias is saved. The 
would-be sacrifice was prevented by an all-wise Providence Let 
the teachings of that day remain fresh in the memory of all. The 
virtue, Friendship, should be emulated by us. We, as a society, 
are sworn to exercise it in our midst. Let us not forget its teach- 
ings, but rather keep the motto ever in view, that when we are 
called upon to enter the dark valley of the shadow of death, we 
can pass from this earthly sphere with malice towards none, aad 
at peace with the whole world." 

Chancellor Commander (addressing Master at Arms) — "Master 
at Arms, you will now face Page John Brown to the Lodge, and 
clothe him in the proper regalia of the First, or Initiatory Rank 
of a Page of this Order." 

Master at Arms faces candidate towards Vice Chancellor's 
station, and invests him with the proper regalia. 

Chancellor Commander (two raps). — "Officers and Brethren of 
the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page of this Chivalric Order, 
permit me to introduce to you Page John Brown, who has been 
regularly initiated, according to the established formulas and 
ceremonies, as a Page of this Order." 

After the public introduction, the Chancellor Commander 
gives one rap and says : — "The Lodge will be at ease until the 
sound of the gavel at the Chancellor Commander's station." 



REMARKS ON FIRST RANK. 

• •"Man-like it is to fall into sin, 
Fiend-like it is to dwell therein. 11 
With charity we suppose that the great multitude of the Knights 
of Pythias are neither wilfully ignorant nor willing to remain 
guilty. 

Will these members of the order, as well as others who read 
this revelation, carefully compare it with the "Book of Law, the 
Holy Bible," and if the two are antagonistic, withhold their 
sympathy and financial and moral support from the order of the 
if nights of Pythias, as an institution containing germs whose 
development will prove fatal to the privileges which they most 
highly prize. * 

The Knights have one excellent principle, if they mean what 
they say, viz : the adoption of theHoly Bible as their book of law. 

Compare the practices of this order with the precepts of the 
Bible. "To the law and to the testimony ; if they speak not 
according to this word it is because there is no light in them." 
Isaiah 8: 20. 

"If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is 
that darkness." Luke 6: 23. 

The lodge members in preparing to receive a candidate for 
initiation in the first rank array themselves in Masks and Black 
Robes. The Book of Law says, "provide things honest in 
the sight of all men." Romans 12: 17. 

Is not such a preparation contrary to the "simplicity and 
godly sincerity" in which Paul rejoiced? 2 Cor. 1 : 12, and from 
which he feared Christians would be led away by Satan ? "But I 
fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his 
subtil ty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity 
that is in Christ." See. 2 Cor. 11 : 3. 

These remarks apply with equal force to the manner in which 
the candidate is introduced. 

His blindfolded eyes ; his white robe ; the raps at the lodge room 
door; the questions and answers following; the slow and solemn 
parade about the lodge room, all show that it is contrary to the 
honest yea, yea and nay, nay inculcated by God's word. 

But the most fundamental and fatal feature of the order, stamp- 
ing it an enemy of mankind, by ignoring Christ, may be 
found in embryo in this question asked in the early part of the 
initiation. "Do you believe in the existence of a Supren\e Being ?" 

"He that honoureth not the Son, honoureth not the Father 
which hath sent Him." John 5 : 23. 

Thus early in their ritual the Knights favorably recognize a 
man-devised Deism, and ignore Christ who is "the power of God 
and the wisdom of God." 1 Cor. 1 : 24. 

This order lias a form of godliness but denies the power thereof, 
(see also prayers on opening and closing the lodge.) The Book 
of Law commands :—*> u From such turn away." 2 Tim 3: 5. 

The friendship inculcated by this order will be noticed at the 
close of the second rank. 

The obligations of the three ranks partake of one spirit and 
will be noticed ut the clo*e of the amplified third rank. 



31 

FORM OF PASSING FROM RANK OF PAGE TO THAT OF ESQUIRE. 

The Lodge being at ease, the Chancellor Commander assumes 
his chair and gives one rap. Immediate observance must be 
given it. The officers repair to their chairs and members to 
their seats. 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brother Master at Arms." 

Master at Arms (rising promptly). — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you satisfied, from your pre- 
vious examinations, that all present are qualified to remain in 
this Lodge of the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page ?*' 

The Master at Arms, it is supposed, will always bear in mind 
the fact that members admitted between the first and second sec- 
tions of the work have not been examined by him." 

Master at Arms (looking around.) — "I am so satisfied Chan- 
cellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you satisfied that all present 
are qualified to remain in the Second, or Armorial Rank of Es- 
quire ?" 

Master at Arms. — "I am" (or am not — as the case may be,) "so 
satisfied." 

Should the Master at Arms respond in the affirmative, the 
Chancellor Commander gives the rap, calling the Inner Guard 
up, and passes fully to the Second Rank. 

Should the Master at Arms answer in the negative, he will 
prove those in doubt, if there are any besides the candidate or 
candidates just initiated, and says : 

Master at Arms.— "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander.— 4 'Brother Master at Arms." 

Master at Arms.— "I find all qualified except the Page (or 
Pages) just initiated, or awaiting to be proved in the Rank of 
Esquire." 

Chancellor Commander.— "Brother Master at Arms, you will 
invite those not qualified to remain in the Second or Armorial 
Rank of Esquire to approach the altar, salute the Chancellor 
Commander and retire," 



32 

While they are at the altar, and having made the sign, any an- 
nouncement required will be made to them, when escorted by 
the Master at Arms to the inner door, they retire from the lodge 
room and the Master at Arms repairs to his station. 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brother Inner Guard." 

Inner Guard (rising promptly). — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "It is my order that Lodge, No. 

, Knights of Pythias, of the Grand Jurisdiction of , be 

now closed in the First, or Initiatory Bank of Page, and opened 
in that of the Second, or Armorial Pank of Esquire. This order 
yon will communicate to the Brother Outer Guard, and bid him 
act in conformity therewith." 

Inner Guard (goes out and says). — "Brother Outer Guard it is 
the order of the Chancellor Commander that this Lodge be closed 
in the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page, and opened in that of 
the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire ; you will perform 
your duties in conformity therewith." 

Outer Guard. — "The commands of the Chancellor Commander 
shall be obeyed." 

Inner Guard (returning). — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother Inner Guard." 

Inner Guard. — "The Outer Guard has received your commands 
and will obey them." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Therefore the officers and members 
will give strict attention that the Lodge is now open in the Sec- 
ond, or Armorial Rank of Esquire." 

Chancellor Commander (two raps, all rise). — "Advance your 
shields by placing your left hand on the left breast." 

All give that sign and while under it the Chancellor Com- 
mander says: "I am also satisfied in my triangle; Brother Vice 
Chancellor, are you satisfied in yours?" 

Vice Chancellor. — "I am, Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Recover !" 

All drop the sign and assume a standing position, arms down." 

Chancellor Commander.— " All is well. Brother Master at 
Arms you will arrange the Book of Law and Swords of Defence." 
(See page 15.) 

After which Chancellor Commander gives three raps, (All 
seated.) 




33 
INITIATION. 

SECOND, OK. ARMORIAL RANK OF ESQUIRE. 
PREPARATION. 

The Page or Pages are taken to the 
ante-room in ordinary dress, and each 
one given a shield, which he is required 
to put on his left forearm, and from 
thence to the door of the Lodge, on the 
outside of which is suspended a shield, 
on which theMaster at Arms gives one 
rap." 

Inner Guard (through the wicket). — u Who comes here ! Who 
strikes upon the shield of this Lodge of the Second, or Armorial 
Rank of Esquire, in this Chivalric Order ?" 

Master at Arms.— "Page John Brown, who is desirous, if the 
officers and members will permit, of being further advanced in 
knowledge in this Chivalric Order, by being proved in the Sec- 
ond, or Armorial Rank of Esquire." 

Inner Guard (closes wicket). — "Chancellor Commander, the 
Master at Arms presents Page John Brown, who asks* that he 
may be further advanced by being proved in the Second, or Ar- 
morial Rank of Esquire in this Chivalric Order." 

Inner Guard opens the door a few inches, that the candidate 
may hear the following dialogue: 

Chancellor Commander. — "If there are no objections, he will 
be admitted." 

Vice Chancellor (promptly, in a loud tone). — "Chancellor 
Commander, before the Page is admitted, I would like to in- 
quire of the Keeper of Records and Seal, if he has served a prop- 
er time in that rank, and is qualified to bear arms in this, the 
Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire, in this Chivalric Order?" 

Keeper of Records and Seal.— "He has." 

Prelate (promptly, in a loud tone). — "Chancellor Commander, 
has the Page shown by his strict fidelity to the Order that he is 
entitled to this, the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire, in this 
Chivalric Order?" 

Chancellor Commander. — "To the best of my knowledge and 
belief, he has." 

Master of Exchequer (promptly, in a loud tone.) — "Chancellor 
Commander, is the Page's reputation among the members of this 



34 

Chivalric Order and his fellow men, such as should commend 
him to the Lodge as a proper person to receive the Second, or 
Armorial Rank of Esquire?" 

Chancellor Commander. — "He has conformed to the law of the 
First, or Initiatory Rank of Page, and I see no reason why he 
should not be admitted to full fellowship with the Esquires of 
this Chivalric Order. No legal objection having been advanced 
it is my order, as Chancellor Commander, that the Page be ad- 
mitted under the usual formulas." 

Inner Guard (opens door). — "Master at Arms, there being no 
legal objection advanced, the Chancellor Commander orders that 
the Page be admitted." 

Master at Arms enters with the candidate, conducts him twice 
around the room, and halts before the chair of the Yice Chan- 
cellor. 

Master at Arms. — "Yice Chancellor, I have the pleasure of 
presenting to you Page John Brown, who has received that rank 
in this Lodge, and having served a proper time as such, is de- 
sirous of being further advanced in the mysteries of this Chival- 
ric Order, by being proved in the Second, or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire," *» 

Vice Chancellor. — "Page John Brown it is with unfeigned 
pleasure that I greet you as an aspirant for the honors of the Es- 
quire's Rank, heartily congratulating you on the progress you 
have made, and of being thought worthy to be entitled thereto. 
It becomes my duty before proceeding further, to interrogate 
you as to whether you are willing to take upon yourself a bind- 
ing obligation to keep forever secret the mysteries of the Second, 
or Armorial Rank in this Chivalric Order?" 

Candidate answers. 

Vice Chancellor. — "Master at Anns, you will conduct the Page 
to our Prelate, who will administer the obligation of the Second, 
or Armorial Rank of Esquire in the Order of Knights of Pyth- 
ias." 

The Master at Arms presents candidate before the Prelate at 
the altar, opposite to and facing him. 

Master at Arms. — "Prelate, by direction of our Vice Chancel- 
lor, I present you Page John Brown, who is desirous of being 






85 

further advanced in the mysteries of this Chivalric Order, for the 
purpose of taking upon himself the obligation of the Second, or 
Armorial Rank of Esquire." 

Prelate. — "Page John Brown, is this your desire?" 

Candidate answers. 

The Prelate rising from his chair goes to the altar, which is 
turned so as to bring the sword handles towards the Prelate's sta- 
tion and points toward the candidate, and says : "You will ad- 
vance your shield by placing your left hand on the left breast, 
over your heart ; the left foot thrown forward, raise your right 
hand perpendicularly, with the hand clinched, as if in the act of 
striking a downward blow ; in which position you will repeat 
after me : 

Chancellor Commander, (two raps). 

OBLIGATION, SECOND OK ARMORIAL RANK OF ESQUIRE. 

"I, John Brown, in the presence of the true and tried Esquires 
here assembled, covered by my shield, and of- my own free will 
and accord, do pledge my word and most sacred honor, that un- 
der any and every circumstance or position in which I may be 
placed, I will keep inviolate all the signs, passwords, grips or 
tokens of this the Esquire Rank of the Knights of Pythias, ex- 
cept it be when given in instruction in course of duty as, or to a 
properly authorized officer of a regular Lodge of this rank, or 
deputized authority as an examining committee to demand the 
same. 

"And I specially promise that I will not write or indite upon 
anything movable or immovable, any of the private work of the 
Rank of Esquire, by which the secrets may become known, or 
suffer it to be done by another, if in my power to prevent ; and 
that I will at all times and under all circumstances, aid and as- 
sist an Esquire in distress ; that I will warn, counsel or shield 
him from any danger which I may know to threaten him or any 
member of his family. All this I promise and declare without 
mental reservation. So help me God, and keep me steadfast in 
this my second obligation of the Knights of Pythias." 

Prelate. — "In token of your sincerity, you will now kiss the 
book that is open before you, which is our Book of Law, and is 
the Holy Bible." 

Chancellor Commander (three raps). 

Prelate. — "Esquire you have now taken upon yourself the sol- 



36 

einn and binding obligation of the Second, or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire. It now remains for you to regulate your acts that those 
of this rank may say of you: "He is indeed truly an Esquire," 
remembering always that your Shield ot Honor must be kept so 
bright in its purity of polish, that he who would say aught 
against its purity of purpose and act, would be rendered blind by 
its bright surface reflecting the dazzling sheen of your injured 
honor." 

"Asking your special attention to the arrangement of the altar, 
Book of Law and Swords of Defence, which you will find highly 
important hereafter," (explains them); "the Master at Arms will 
now conduct you to the Chancellor Commander, who will in- 
struct you in the signs, countersigns, grip and password, of this 
the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire in this Chivalric Or- 
der." 

Master at Arms presents candidate before the Chancellor Com- 
mander." 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, by direction of the 
Prelate, I present you Esquire John Brown, for instruction in 
the secret work of this the Second, Armorial or Esquire's Rank 
in this Chivalric Order, he having taken the obligation in regular 
form, under his shield, and is thereby entitled to receive the 
same." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Esquire, it now remains for me to 
instruct you, that you will be able to make yourself known to 
members as having attained the Second, or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire in this Chivalric Order, and also to prepare you, as of 
that rank, to take a seat in our midst." 

"The numerical order of this Rank is that of the Second, or 
Armorial, wherein, as in olden times, you were permitted, for 
the first time, to carry a shield ; the title of its members is Es- 
quire, the motto is Caution, the color of the regalia or insignia, is 
yellow; the password is Watch; (pulls his watch from his pocket 
just before uttering the words); Hie sign of caution or courtesy, 
given on entering or retiring from the Lodge, when open in the 
Kank of Esquire, is; 



37 




SIGN OF CAUTION OR COURTESY, RANK OF 
ESQUIRE. 

Place the right elbow in left hand and gently 
clinch the chin with the right hand. [See cut.] 

Countersign in Answer : Same, or a wave 
of the hand by the Chancellor Commander. 

The Alarm : One rap. 




SHIELD SIGN. 

Raise right hand perpendicularly, with the 
hand clinched as if in the act of striking a down- 
ward blow, left hand over heart. Same position 
as when taking the obligation of this rank. [See 
cut] 



GRIP, RA^sK OF ESQUIRE. 

Grasp left hands in ordinary way. No shake. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, you will now re 
tire with the Esquire to the ante-room, clothe him in the proper 
legalia of the Second or Armorial Rank of Esquire, in this 
Chivalric Order, and permit him to work his way into the Lodge 
without his shield." 

Master at Arm<* and Esquire retire. Upon re-entering, after 
the candidate has given the sign, while at the Altar, the Chan- 
cellor Commander addresses him as follows • 



38 

Chancellor Commander. — "Esquire John Brown, before taking 
your seat, you will please come this way." 

Candidate comes in front of station of Chancellor Commander. 

Chancellor Commander. — "We have a Keeper of Records and 
Seal that is methodical in all his official business ; he has given 
me a blank for you to fill out that he may know your hand-writ- 
ing and the manner of spelling your name, the name and number 
of the street where you reside, etc." (hands him the blank.) 

BLANK FOR CANDIDATE TO FILL OUT. 

Name 

Residence 

Occupation 

Motto 

Password 

Near the Chancellor Commander's station is a small writing 
desk so arranged that by touching a secret spring the top ot the 
desk falls in and a bell is rung or a pistol fired and the word 
Caution in large letters appears. 

TVhen the candidate is handed the blank to fill out the desk is 
occupied by three of the brethren ; one at each end and usually 
an officer in the center, whom we will suppose to be the Master 
of Exchequer. The Chancellor Commander calls out: "Brother 
Master of Exchequer you will please move from the desk, that 
the candidate may fill out the blank. (Master of Exchequer fails 
to hear, seems absorbed in his work.) 

Chancellor Commander (louder.) — "Brother Master of Exche- 
quer will you vacate that desk that the candidate may occupy it 
a moment ?" (Still no attention is paid to the order.) 

Chancellor Commander (still louder). — "Brother Master of Ex- 
chequer will you get up from that desk and go to your own sta- 
tion to do your writing?" 

Master of Exchequer finally gathers up his writing materials 
and vacates tin; desk to the candidate. The brethren at each end 
keep up an earnest discussion on some subject and the Master at 
Arms stands behind the candidate, all of which is well designed 
to confuse him. When he begins to write the password the Mas- 
ter at Arms gives his shoulders a sudden jerk and the report of 
the pistol or ring of the bell with the tumbling of the desk and 
Candidate to the floor creates a general confusion. 



In some lodges the desk and the chair on which the candidate 
is seated tumble to pieces, and in a few lodges, as the spring is 
touched, two upright doors above the table suddenly open and a 
large pale hand about two feet long comes down on the candi- 
date's hand. 

Chancellor Commander (looking piously grare).— "Brother 
Master at Arms, what is the cause cf this confusion?" 

Master at Arms.— "The candidate has attempted to write the 
password." 

The Chancellor Commander then delivers a short impromptu 
address to the candidate, something similar to the following : 

Chancellor Commander (to candidate). — "I am astonished that 
a gentlemen of your general good appearance, and honest expres- 
sion of countenance, having an established reputation for court- 
eous conduct and unflinching integrity would come here and 
take solemn obligations and especially promise that you would 
not write or indite upon anything movable or immovable any of 
the private work of the Kank of Esquire, should attempt to vio- 
late your obligation even before the ceremony of conferring the 
Second Kank upon you is concluded." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother Master at Arms you will 
divest the candidate of his regalia." 

A brother rising says. — "I move that the candidate be suspended 
for 99 years." 

The motion is seconded and stated to the Lodge by the Chan- 
cellor Commander, when after arguments pro and con the Chan- 
cellor Commander gives the candidate an opportunity to rise and 
explain, if he has any explanation to offer for the violation of his 
obligation. 

After a humble apology by the candidate the motion for his 
suspension is withdrawn by the mover with consent of the sec- 
ond. 

Should the candidate remember his obligation and not write 
the password he is complimented by the Chancellor Commander 
and is frequently shown what would have happened had he vio- 
lated his word. 



40 

ADDRESS TO CANDIDATE, BY CHANCELLOR COM- 
MANDER. 

"Esquire John Brown, I assure you that this has not been done 
to trifle with your feelings, but to practically test the motto of 
the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire in this order. Cauiion 
has been defined as prudence, care, wariness and watchfulness; 
prudence not only in the lodges, but in your every day life ; care 
in the proper transaction of your business ; wariness in your every 
avocation, and a proper watchfulness of your family, that they 
may be permitted to enjoy every earthly blessing that is in your 
power to bestow upon them. The lesson that you have received 
is one that is likely to make a lasting and durable impression on 
your mind, and ever bring to your remembrance the solemn and 
binding obligation you have taken upon yourself never to reveal 
any of the secrets contained in this Rank of our Order. In the 
primary portion of these ceremonies, another practical exempli- 
fication of the teachings of this Rank was given you; and it was 
intended that all that was then said should reach your ears and 
furnish food for thought. To that end the Master at Arms 
brought you to the very threshhold of the Lodge, and the Inner 
Guard left the door ajar, as you no doubt thought accidentally. 
The Vice Chancellor questioned the Keeper of Records and Seal 
as to whether you had served a proper time as Page, it being im- 
peratively necessary, according to our rules, that the space of 
(one week, or two weeks as may be fixed by the By-laws. Usually 
one week) should elapse between the conferring of the different 
Grades of Rank in the Order. The Prelate questioned as to your 
fidelity to the order, and the Master of Exchequer interrogated 
as to your personal character, as no one whose reputation does 
not stand clear with the outer world can be received in friend- 
ship here. Therefore you perceive that Cauiion was used to its 
fullest extent before you were admitted to the Lodge. I feel sat 
isfied from the teachings that have been inculcated here, that you 
will prove yourself prudent and watchful, exhibiting the proper 
forethought in all your dealings, that is essential to your position 
in the world and proper station in this Order. 

"Master at Arms, you will now face Esquire John Brown to 
the Lodge, (and it not having remembered his obligation, and 
therefore been divested of his regalia, the Chancellor Commander 






41 

will continue) and clothe him in the proper regalia of the Second 
or Armorial Rank of an Esquire of this Order." 

Master at Arms faces the candidate toward the Vice Chancel- 
lor's station, and invests him with the proper regalia. 

Chancellor Commander (two raps). — "Officers and members of 
the Second, or Armorial Rank of this Chivalric Order, permit me 
to introduce to you Esquire John Brown, who has been regularly 
proved, according to the established formulas and ceremonies, as 
an Esquire of this Order." 

After the public introduction the Chancellor Commander gives 
one rap and says : 

•'The Lodge will be at ease until the sound of the gavel at the 
Chancellor Commander's station." 



REMARKS ON SECOND RANK. 

Towards the close of the first rank the Chancellor Comman- 
der remarks : Friendship has for ages been looKed upon as the 
Corner Stone of every Secret Society. 

The editor of the Peoria Transcript, a shrewd business man, 
said of Masonry: "It is organized selfishness." Such we believe 
to be the opinion of this order, not only of honest persons outside 
of the Knights of Pythias but also of its own members. 

What a narrow friendship is that which restricts its professed 
benefits to a favored few ! 

Not only are all women excluded from the order but at the 
session of the "Supreme Lodge of the World" at Richmond, Va., 
commencing March 9th, 1869 the application for a charter by a 
body of colored citizens of PhLauelphia, "praying that they 
might be permitted to have and enjoy the great privileges and 
benefits of the Knights of Pythias, 1 ' was refused." 

•Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Matt 22 ; 39 ; is the 
rule of the Holy Scriptures. Christ gave His best and greatest 
blessings to "whosoever" would receive them. Like His heart all 
hearts should burn with a tender friendship for every member of 
the human family, and as we "have opportunity" we should, like 
the good Samaritan, help the needy wherever found. 

Knights of Pythias oiler their friendship to a select few. It is 
a spurious imitation .of true friendship more fatal to the best 
interests of mankind than counterfeit money is to the interests of 
honorable commercial transactions. 

The signs and grips which a candidate receives at the close of 

his obligation (and which he must conceal even from those nearest 

and dearest to him, if not members of the order) are put by the 

Bible into very bad company. 

"A naughty person, a wicked man walketh with a froward mouth. 

He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth 
with his fingers. 



42 

Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; 
he soweth discord." Prov. 6 : 12-14. 

Life is too short, too solemn to be spent in counterfeiting any- 
thing valuable. Lot us turn to Christ and with the grace which 
he gives to those who ask, exemplify by our own lives, and 
strengthen in every human being that we can influence, Christian 
or Bible friendship. 

"Caution" is unquestionably needful and wise and were it properly 
exercised the Knights of Pythias and other secret orders would 
find a far smaller number who would submit to their wretched 
mummeries and tricks. 

But who can fail to see that not a wise caution but suspicion 
and distrust is really what is taught by the low mean trick of a 
systematic effort of a body of men to confuse another, and having 
succeeded in doing so to jerk him from his chair to the floor, 
blow the desk at which he is seated in pieces and then reproach 
him with violating his obligation and vote to suspend him per- 
petually from membership. Could they possibly take a better 
method to convince the initiate that their preteuded friendship is 
a sham and he must be on a sharp lookout for other tricks V 

FORM OF PASSING FROM RANK OF ESQUIRE TO THAT OF KNIGHT* 

The Lodge being at ease the Chancellor Commander resumes 
his chair and gives one rap. The officers repair at once to their 
chairs and members to their seats. 

Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brother Master at Arms." 

Master at Arms (rising). — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — 'Are you satisfied, from your previ- 
ous examinations, that all present are qualified to remain in this 
Lodge of the Second, or Armorial Rank of E-quire?" 

(The Master at Arms, it is supposed, will always bear in mind 
the fact that members admitted between the first and second sec- 
tions of the work have not been examined by him.) 

Master at Arms (looking around). — "I am so satisfied, Chan- 
cellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you satisfied that all present 
are qualitiedto remain in the Third, or Chivalric Rank of. Knight ?" 

Muster at Arms. — "I am (or am not — as the case may be) so 
satisfied.' 1 

Should the Master at Arms respond in the affirmative, the Chan- 
cellor Commander gives one rap, calling Hie Inner Guard up, 
and passes fully to the Third Rank. 

Should the Master at Arms answer in the negative, he will 
prove those in doubt, if there are any besides the candidate or 
candidates just proved. 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother Master at Arms." 



43 

Master at Arms. — "I find all qualified, except the Esquire (or 
Esquires) just proved or awaiting to be charged in the Rank of 
Knight. " 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother Master at Arms, you will 
invite those not qualified to remain in the Third, or Chivalric 
Rank of Knight, to approach the Altar, salute the Chancellor 
Commander and retire." 

While they are at the Altar, and having made the sign, any an- 
nouncement required will be made to them, when escorted by the 
Master at Arms to the inner door, they retire from the lodge- 
room and the Master at Arms repairs to his station. 
Chancellor Commander (one rap). — "Brother Inner Guard.'' 
Inner Guard (rising.) — "Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "It is my order that Lodge, 

No. Knights of Pythias, of the Grand Jurisdiction of , 

be now closed in the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire and 
opened in that of the Third, or Chivalric Rank of Knight. This 
order you will communicate to the Brother Outer Guard and bid 
him act in conformity therewith." 

Inner Guard (going into ante-room) —"Brother Outer Guard, it is 
the order of the Chancellor Commander that the Lodge be closed 
in the Second, or Armorial Rank of Esquire and opened in that 
of the Third, or Chivalric Rank of Knight; you will perform 
your duties in conformity therewith." 

Outer Guard. — "The commands of the Chancellor Commander 
shall be obeyed." 

Inner Guard (returns).— "Chancellor Commander." 
Chancellor Commander.— "Brother Inner Guard." 
Inner Guard.— "The Outer Guard has received your commands, 
and will obey them." 

Chancellor Commander.— "Therefore the officers and members 
will give strict attention that the Lodge is now open in the Third 
or Chivalric Rank of Knight." 
Chancellor Com. (two raps, all rise).— "Advance your shields I" 



44 




Advance Your Shields . 
Advance your shields, left hand clinched 
and held height of chin and afoot in front of 
it, back of hand from you. 



Chancellor Commander. — "Parry !" 




PARRY SIGN. 

Bring sword to a "Present " and swing 
point from right to left as if to parry or 
ward off a blow. When sign is com- 
pleted the right hand will be about a foot 
from the body and the sword will point 
about two feet in front of left foot. 



Chancellor Commander (swords still held at "parry"). — I am 
also satisfied in my triangle; Brother Vice Chancellor are you 
satisfied in yours?" 

Vice Chancellor. — "I am, Chancellor Commander." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Recover !" (All resume the ordina- 
ry position, arms down.) 

Chancellor Commander.— "All is well." Brother Master at 
Arms you will arrai ge the Book of Law and Swords of Defence.. 
(See page 15.) 

This being done and the Master at Arms having returned to 
his station, the Chancellor Commander gives three raps. (All 
seated.) 




45 
INITIATION. 

THIRD, OR CHIVALRIC RANK OF KNIGHT. 

The Esquire is taken to the ante-room 
where he is instructed by the Master at 
Arms to say, in answer to any direct 
interrogatory made of him, "By what 
right does he make this demand ?" the 
answer will be, "By that of being a 
brave man, 1 ' or else get the candidate to 
authorize him — the Master at Arms — 
to do so for him, after which he is 
blindfolded, the shield put on his left 
forearm as in the preceding Rank ; he is then conducted to the 
inner door, upon which there is no shield ; the Master at Arms 
gives two raps, which are answered in the same manner from 
within, and the wicket is opened. 

Inner Guard. — "Who comes here? Who dares to interrupt 
the proceedings of this Lodge while working in the Third, or 
Chivalric Rank of Knight?" 

Master at Arms. — * 'Esquire John Brown, who having received 
the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page, been proved in the Second 
or Armorial Rank of Esquire, and passing a fair ballot, now de- 
clares himself a Brave man, and as such demands admittance to 
this Lodge of the Third, or Chivalric Rank of Knight." 

Inner Guard (closes wicket.) — "Chancellor Commander, there 
is without an Esquire who has received the First or Initiatory 
Rank of Page, been proved in the Second or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire, and now demands admittance to this Lodge of the Third 
or Chivalric Rank of Knight." 

CI lancellor Commander. — "By what right does he make this 
demand?" 

Ik ner Guard. — "By reason of having been initiated, proved, 
passing a fair ballot, and boasting himself a Brave man." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Such being his pledge and demand 
and having attained the necessary preparatory Rank , it is my 
order as Chancellor Commander that you let him enter without 
further challenge." 

The Master at Arms conducts the Esquire around the Castle 
Hall once and halts before the chair of the Chancellor Com 
mander. 



46 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, Esquire John 
Brown, who has been duly iDitiated as a Page, and proved as an 
Esquire, in this Chivalric Order, desires to receive the highest 
Rank conferred by this Lodge, by being instructed in the myste- 
ries and passing through the ordeal that all brave Knights have 
done who have reached this summit of Pythian honors.' ' 

Chancellor Commander. — "Esquire, is this your demand ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander.— "Upon entering this Castle Hall as 
a Retainer, seeking the First or Initiatory Rank of Page, a re- 
quirement was exacted from and of you ; do you remember what 
it was, and if so, will you state its nature V * 

Candidate. — Obedience." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, are 
you satisfied that the Esquire remembers and fully appreciates 
tkis requirement sufficient to advance him in our highest hon- 
ors?" 

(All.)— "We are." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Upon attaining the First or Initia- 
tory Rank of Page in this order, you were taught one great les- 
son. Do you remember what it was, and if so will you be kind 
enough to state the same?" 

Candidate. — "Friendship." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, has 
the Esquire who demands advancement in our order merited as 
well as received your Friendship." 

(All.)— "He has." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Upon reaching and being proved 
in the Second or Armorial Rank of Esquire of this order, you 
were taught another great lesson. Will you state what it was ?" 

Candidate.— "€aution." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, has 
the Esquire who stands before you as a candidate for the Third or 
Chivalric Rank of Knight, proven himself, to the best of your 
knowledge and belief, obedient, prudent, cautious and watchful ?" 

(All.)— "He has." 

Chancellor Commander. — "This being so, Esquire, I can see no 
just reason why you should not be permitted to proceed in this 
Chivalric Order ; but it is my duty to inform you that your cour- 



47 

age and confidence may be put to a severe test during the cere 
monies through which you are about to pass, but should such be 
the will of those around you assembled, and if, as you declare in 
your demand, you are a Brav«? man, and will implicitly obey all 
the orders given you, and requirements exacted during its pro- 
gress, no accident can possibly befall you. On the contrary, if 
you are not a man of iron nerve, or if you have made this de- 
mand from an unworthy motive, I tell you plainly and sincerely 
that I cannot be answerable for any Injury you may receive. To 
assure you, however, that this Lodge, its officers and members 
fully appreciate your position, I will, as Chancellor Commander, 
state that the ordeal you may have to undergo is one, not only 
dangerous in character, but of a fearful nature. (Sometimes the 
Chancellor Commander requests the Keeper of Records and Seal 
to read or quote the by-law of the Lodge, promising $10 per week 
to a brother in case of disability and $100 for funeral expenses in 
case of death and generally exaggerates the amount of the prom- 
ised benefit.) Should your vaunted bravery fail you at the 
crowning point of its consummation , by it we as an order prove 
and exemplify the fact as to whether you have been truthful in 
your former protestations of Friendship, such as was exhibited 
by Damon towards Pythias, or the Caution, -though .unwise, as 
shown by Lucullus in slaying his master's horse to preserve his 
.life. 

"Heretofore you have answered readily and promptly the in- 
terrogatories as made i n the former and preceding grades of rank, 
but the answers now to be given are of too serious a nature to be 
lightly made, and I would therefore ask your greatest considera- 
tion before so doing ; but to give you a last opportunity to elect 
for yourself, I will state tSiat it is not too late, if you so desire, to 
be escorted hence and permitted to retire, (pause). With the 
official assurance from me that no accident can befall an obedient 
and friendly person, who is not only cautious but a truly brave 
man, aspiring to the high rank of Knight, I ask, as Chancellor 
Commander, in the name of this Lodge, its officers and members 
around you assembled, do you still persist in your demand?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you willing to take upon your 
self a solemn and binding obligation to keep forever secret the 
mysteries of this Chivalric Rank of Knight r* 



48 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, you will conduct 
the Esquire to our Prelate, who will administer the obligation of 
the Third and Chivalric Rank of Knighthood in this Order." 

Master at Arms presents candidate before the Prelate at the 
Altar, opposite to and facing him. 

Master at Arms. — "Prelate, by order of the Chancellor Com- 
mander of this Lodge, I present Esquire John Brown, who hav- 
ing been initiated as a Page and proved in the Second or Armo- 
rial Rank of Esquire, now declares himself a Brave man, and as 
such demands that he be obi igated in the Third or Chivalric Rank 
of Knight in this Order." 

Prelate. — "Esquire John Brown, do you declare yourself a 
Brave man, and make this demand of your own volition?" 

Candidate answers. 

Prelate— "Master at Arms, why is he thus blindfolded ?" 

Master at Arms. — "That he might be conducted through this 
Castle Hall without being able to discover any of the secrets or 
ceremonies of the Knight Rank of our Order, should he fail to 
insist in his demands before the Chancellor Commander." 

Prelate. — "Since the Esquire insists in his demands, you will 
remove the hoodwink, (which being done, the Prelate continues,) 
and place him in proper position, at the Altar, to take the obli- 
gation, by advancing his shield in placing his left hand on his 
left breast, over the heart, advancing his right foot, his right 
hand resting on the Book of Law and grasping the hilt of the 
Sword of Defence before him as if making a parry with the 
sword, in which position he will assume the obligation." 

Master at Arms places candidate in proper position. 

Chancellor Commander. — (Two raps.) 

OBLIGATION RANK OP KNIGHT. 

Prelate, rising, goes to the Altar and says : 

"(You will now repeat after me.) I, (your name) do most sol* 
emnly and sincerely promise and declare, under the penalties of 
my former obligations, that I will never reveal, directly or in- 
directly, any of the signs, tokens or mysteries of this Rank of 
Bravery, or those of any other Rank of the Knights of Pythias, 
to any person not properly authorized by this, or a Lodge work- 
ing under the control of a regularly constituted Grand Lodge, 
recognized by the Supreme Lodge Knights of Pythias of the 






World, to receive the same ; except it be a just and lawful Knight, 
whom I shall know to be legally entitled to receive the same, or 
within the Castle Hall of a just and regularly constituted Lodge, 
subordinate to the Supreme Lodge, Knights of Pythias of the 
World. 

"I further promise and declare, never to communicate, by word, 
syllable, letter, sign or character, the semi-annual password to 
any person, save and except the proper officers within a Lodge, 
or in course of duty, acting in capacity of Chancellor Com- 
mander, Grand Chancellor or his deputy, or Supreme Chancellor 
or his deputy. 

<: I further promise to obey all orders that may be given me, 
emanating from the Supreme, Grand, this or any other Lodge of 
this Order of which I may become a member, or any competent 
authority issuiDg the same, so long as they do not conflict with 
my political or religious liberty. And if I ever, by word or 
sign, expose the secret work or ceremonies of this Order, in an 
unauthorized manner, or fail in any of my obligations, may I 
suffer all the anguish and torments possible for man to sutler. 
All this I promise and declare, without any mental reservation 
whatever. So help me God, and keep me steadfast." 

"Prelate. — "Esquire John Brown, in testimony of your sincer- 
ity, you will now kiss the Book that is open before yon, which 
is our Book of Law, the Holy Bible.'' (Kisses the book.) 

Chancellor Commander. — (Three raps.) 

Prelate. — "Esquire, you have now taken the obligation that 
ties you to us, and I hail you as an aspirant to the honors due to 
a Knight of this Order. You must ever remember your obliga- 
tion, and the purpose of your shield in the Second or Armorial 
Rank of Esquire in this Order. You have seen how easily you 
might have fallen into an error, but for the interposition of a 
brother. Let the solemnity of that occurrence be ever present in 
your mind and emblazoned upon your shield and memory, to 
stimulate you to fulfill and keep inviolate every obligation taken 
by jon. The obligation to which you have just subscribed, im- 
poses a condition to obey all orders which may be given you, so 
long as they do not conflict with your civil or religious liberty. 
You have also stated in this Lodge that you are a man of cour- 
age. That assertion remains yet to be proven ; and for the last 



50 

time inviting your attention to the arrangement of the Altar, 
Book of Law and Swords of Defence, (See page 15 ;) I now 
consign you to our Master at Arms, who will proceed with you 
to the ante-room, properly equip and present you to the Chan- 
cellor Commander, before whom your bravery may be put to a se- 
vere test. Have confidence, should such be the case, and all will 
be well." 

Master at Arms takes him out and equips him in the helmet, 
shield, baldric, belt and sword with no blade to its handle, but is 
firmly soldered to the scabbard. When thus equipped he knocks, 

is admitted and taken before the Chancellor Commander. 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, under the instruc- 
tions of the Prelate, I present Esquire John Brown who has ta- 
ken the obligation of the Chivalric Rank of Knight, in this Or- 
der, and now demands his final instructions." 

Vice Chancellor. — "Chancellor Commander, before you pro- 
ceed any further, I demand to know by what right he wears the 
uniform, equipments and arms of a Knight without having gone 
through an ordeal to test his claims to so hi 6 h a rank in this Chiv- 
alric Order? I demand the ordeal !" 

Chancellor Commander. — "I had hoped the Esquire's conduct 
had been such as to wan-ant the Lodge in waiving this fearful 
ceremonial ; yet it is for the Lodge, in its sovereign capacity, to 
say. Brethren what say yon, is il ordeal, or no ordeal ?" 

All.— "Ordeal, the ordeal!" 

Chancellor Commander. — "The Lodge so decides. Master at 
Arms, you Avill repair to the armory of this Castle Hall, and 
bring forth the first implement of torture contained therein that 
your hand may fall upon, and produce it here— remember that it 
is my order that you select from all that are there in the dark." 

Master at Arms retires, and things are heard to fall down, mak- 
ing noise, etc.; in the meantime the Chancellor Crmmander in- 
structs an assistant to relieve the candidate of helmet, shield, etc., 
and the Master at Arms returns with his selection and places it 
before the candidate; the Chancellor Commander exhibits the 
"Property of the Third Rank," an oak plank with about thirty- 
six spikes set therein, and causes candidate to examine it closely, 
after which it is placed in position. The ceremonies are varied, 
the Language extempore and is such as the Chancellor Commander 



51 

thinks will make a deep impression on the candidate. Though 
the Chancellor Commander plainly intimates that there are a 
number of implements of torture, there is in fact only an oak 
plank about twenty inches square and two inches thick, filled 
with spikes of iron or steel, five or six inches long, called the 
"property "and another an exact imitation of the first in appearance, 
in which the teeth are rubber. In some cases blood is sprinkled on 
and between the spikes to make the effect the more terrifying to the 
mind of the candidate. The "property" being in position the 
Master at Arms conducts the candidate to a chair or the three 
steps facing the "property" and directs him to take off his boots, 
when the Chancellor Commander says: "Brother Master at 
Arms you will conduct the candidate this way." 

He is conducted near the Chancellor Commander who then 
addresses him in a short impromptu speech in which he pictures 
the various tests and tortures suffered by others in past ages, thus 
still further exciting his feelings, while at the same time divert- 
ing his attention while the plank with rubber spikes in is put in 
place of the other. 

He is then escorted by the Master at Arms and executioners to 
a chair two or three feet back of the "property" which is between 
the chair and the Chancellor Commander. He steps into the 
chair, faces the Chancellor Commander, and the Knights form in 
two rows about six feet apart facing inward, each wearing a 
mask and long black robe, the robes of the executioners extend- 
ing over the head with small holes to see through. When thus 
ready the Master at Arms says: "Chancellor Commander, the 
candidate is in proper position." 

Chancellor Commander to candidate (moving forward and 
bringing his sword to a "carry").— "We are now going to test 
your protestations of friendship and your fidelity to your obli- 
gation. You have sworn you would obey all orders emenating 
from the Supreme Chancellor, Grand Chancellor or the Chancel- 
lor Commander of this Lodge. I now as Chancellor Commandei 
of this Lodge order you to jump with both feet on those points." 

If he does not promptly obey the Knights all say: "He hesi- 
tates, he hesitates," etc. 

If he does not obey the second order to jump they cry : "Cow 
ard," etc. 



52 



If he does not obey the third order to jump the Chancellor 
Commander orders the executioners to put him on the points 
which they proceed to do, always bringing down both feet on 
the mock spikes and sometimes laying him down on them. 

Should there be two candidates, alter the first is tested lie may 
be laid down with a white robe over him and red clothe at his 
feet, and when the second candidate comes to tho lost the first 
lies groaning as if in ny. [This groaning humbug is 

not always practiced.] About one man in ten will jump under 
the impression that the board with spikes will be jerked away 
by some one. 

[The above is extempore and other appropriate words may be 
used .] . 

When the foregoing or similar ceremonies are completed the 
Master at Arms conducts the candidate to the Vice Chancellor. 

Master at Arms. — ''Vice Chancellor, t present Esquire John 
Brown, who has passed the ordeal that all Knights of this order 
must undergo, and having so done, now demands from you the 
sign, countersign, password and Ihis the Third or Chiv- 

alric Rank of Knight, he being entitled tliento." 

Vice Chancellor. — l 'My brother, as a Brave man, T (if he did 
not obey — cannot) greet you. May the lesson you have received 
to-night be impressed indelibly upon your mind. We find 
many obstructions laying in our path through life, which, to the 
timid may seem dangerous and deadly ; but the truly courageous 
man may brave them all and find them mere shadows. And 
now, with the hope that you will ever show yourself as brave as 
(or if not obeying— a braver man than) you have during the pro- 
gress of this ceremonial, I will, with pleasure, instruct you in 
the signs, countersigns, password and grip. 

The sign of Bravery or Courtesy in the Rank of Knight is as 
follows: 



SIGN OF BRAVERV OK COURTESY, THIRD RANK. 

Form a triangle with forearms extending horizon- 
tally from you, points of fingers and thumbs to- 
gether and spread out; heel of hands about five 
inches apart. (See cut.) This is called the visor 
sign. 




53 




VISOR SIGN ON ENTERING I ODGE- 

On entering to salute the Chancellor Com. 
mander, raise visor so as to touch the breast with 
the forefingers, the thumbs pointing downward 
HaDds are then separated and with a gentle wave 
are brought to the side. 



VISOR SIGN ON RETIRING FROM LODGE. 

On retiring approach the Altar, face the 
Chancellor Commander and turn the visor 
(hands) down, so that the thumbs point up 
and the fingers down and then bring hands to 
side with a gentle wave, 



The Countersign, given by the Chancellor Commander is same 
as sign or a wave of the hand. The Password, given at the inner 
door, is Confidence. The Alarm at the inner door is two raps. 
The Grip is given in this manner: 



GRIP, THIRD RANK. 

Take each other by the right hand as for 
ordinary hand shake. When withdrawing 
hands press each other's forefinger with 
thumb and forefinger, gently, the whole 
length of finger, slightly crooking the ends 
of the forefingers and hooking or pressing 
them together at the points. 




54 



Vice Chancellor. — "Master at Arms, you will now conduct our 
newly tried and instructed "brother to the Chancellor Commander 
for final examination, instruction and enrollment on the roster of 
this Lodge, as having that Rank. (He does so.) 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, hy direction of the 
Vice Chancellor of this Lodge, I present to you Brother John 
Brown, who has been instructed in the sign, countersign, pass- 
word and grip of the Third or Chivalric Bank of Knight, for 
final examination, instruction and enrollment on the roster of 
this Lodge as having that Bank." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brother John Brown, as an evidence 
of the attention paid to the instruction already given you, you 
will be kind enough to satisfy me that you are in possession of 
the sign. 

Candidate gives the Visor Sign which he says is turned up upon 
entering and down on retiring ; the Countersign, same or a wave of 
the hand; the Password, Confidence; the Alarm, two raps; the 
Grip, shake hands in ordinary manner, then press each other's 
forefinger, whole length of finger, gently, hooking the forefingers 
slightly as the hands are withdrawn. 

Chancellor Commander. — "You being correct so far in the 
work of this Chivalric Bank, I will now instruct you in the fol- 
lowing. The Sign of Recognition or Challenge Sign is : 



SIGN OF RECOGNITION OR CHALLENGE SIGN, THIRD 
RANK. 

Place left hand over the heart ; right hand open, 
palm down and about the height of the hips, indi- 
cating the position your hands were in when you 
took the obligation. 

The answer is the same, indicating the same, it 
being simply the position your hands were in when 
assuming the obligation of the First, or Initiatory 
Rank of Page. 




55 



The Voting Sign is : 




VOTING SIGN. 

Clench the left hand and raise it about 
as high as the eyes. 

The Semi- Annual Password, as its name 
indicates, and which is given at the outer 
door, (the Rank Passwords are not,) is* — 



The Parry Sign is : 

PARKY SIGN. 

Bring sword to a ''Present" and swing 
point from right to left as if to parry or 
ward off a blow. When sign is com- 
pleted the right hand will be about a foot 
from the body and the sword will point 
about two feet in front of left foot. 

The Grand Honors are s;iven thus : 





GRAND HONORS. 

Place the left hand on the heart and 
sword at a " present." 

SUPREME HONORS. 

Given like Grand Honors except that 
left forearm is held horizontal, extending 
directly forward, elbow at side, with hand 
open and palm up. 



*The Semi-Annual Pass Word for the last balf of 1878 July tfr Jan. ) was 
"Be United." 



56 

Chancellor Commander.— "I will here state to you that no 
signs, passwords, or other instruction given you in this Order- 
will be of any avail or assistance to you, when in anywise trans- 
gressing the laws of the country or reputable rules of society; 
neither are they binding upon you when given, made or sent to 
you by any other member of the Order guilty of these offences; 
this you will invariably bear in mind. 

"Your close attention is always asked to the manner in which 
the Altar is arranged when you enter the Lodge ; and to which 
your notice has been called before, as by it you will always give 
the correct sign of tUe rank in which it may be working, and 
thereby prevent disclosing that to others which they may not be 
legally entitled to, therefore, I will now explain them to you. 
In the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page, it is with the Book 
open, two swords crossed underneath, and handles towards the 
Chancellor Commander ; in the Second, or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire, the same, except that the swords are on top of the Book 
of Law, while in the Third, or Chivalric Rank of Knight there 
is but one sword to be seen, which lies on top of the Book, diag- 
onally across it, and with the handle toward the Vice Chancel- 
lor's station. These you will please charge your memory with, 
and thereby prevent mistakes occurring. 

"Brother Brown, you have now passed through the Third, or 
Chivalric Rank of Knight, and the highest that can be given you 
in this Lodge. The motto thereof is Bravery, you have been 
severely tested, and passed the ordeal unscathed, exemplifying 
in part your confidence in and willingness to adhere to all lawful 
mandates. Bravery is defined as courage, heroism, undaunted 
spirit, intrepidity and gallantry, though there are other meanings 
to the term. There is a moral as well as a physical courage ; the 
lesson inculcated in this instance embraces them both. You are 
expected to be brave and courageous in upholding the rights of a 
brother, maintaining the dignity of the Order, or its tenets of 
Friendship, .Charity and Benevolence, and though the uninitiated 
and skeptical person should deride, condemn or mock, ever stand 
ready to defend it and them from slur or sarcasm; not that they 
would in any manner take from it or its teachings the honor due, 
but let the world know that any shaft aimed thereat is as though 
received by yourself. Aiding thus in upholding our rights, us- 
ages and customs as a chivalric order, you strengthen and sus- 
tain our glorious principles, and more closely unite yourself with 



57 

those who are linked together in the holy ties of brotherly love. 
Courage enables you to encounter difficulties and dangers with 
firmness and without fear of depression of spirits ; it is also a 
constituent part of fortitude, which implies patience to bear con- 
tinued suffering. Constitutional courage often forsakes its pos- 
sessor in the hour of danger, but courage which arises from a 
sense of duty, like that of the noble Pythias when addressing the 
tyrant Dionysius: 

"As thou'rt a husband and father, hear me — 
Let Damon go and see his wife and child 
Before he dies— for four hours respite him — 
Put me in chains ; plunge me into his dungeon 
As pledge for his return ; do this — but this — 
And may the gods themselves build up thy greatness 
As high as their own heaven." 

"Courage like this, when coupled with friendship, acts uni- 
formly. Brother Knight John Brown, I have no fear but that 
you will prove yourself in like manner Friendly, Cautious and 
Brave — ever ready to extend the strong hand of fellowship to^ 
ward your brethren, and to stand by the courageous. 

(Sometimes the Candidate is here catechised in reference to the 
Signs, Countersign, Pass Word, alarm on entering, the Grip etc. 
of the degree. See page 54.) 

Chancellor Commander. — "Keeper of Records and Seal, you 
will now present the Roster of this Lodge to Brother Knight John 
Brown for enrollment." 

Keeper of Records and Seal presents the book, with Constitu- 
tion and By-Laws in it, kept for that purpose ; the Knight signs 
his name, and enters his residence or address. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, you will now face 
the newly charged Bi other Knight to the Lodge, and clothe him 
in the proper regalia or insignia of the Third, or Chivalric and 
Honorable RanK of Knight." 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander your orders have 
been obeyed." 

Chancellor Commander (two raps).— "Officers, members and 

visitors of Lodge, No. — , Knights of Pythias, permit me to 

introduce to you Brother Knight John Brown, who has been reg- 
ularly initiated in the First, Initiatory or Page's, proved in the 
Second, Armorial or Esquire's, and fully charged in the Third^ 
Chivalric or Knight's Rank of this Order, in the usual ritualistic 



58 

and ceremonial form, [examined in accordance with the law — 
should such be the case. This examination referred to is fre- 
quently and in some Lodges usually omitted], and enrolled as a 

member of Lodge, No. — , Knights of Pythias. Brethren, 

join with me in extending a hearty, sincere and chivalric wel- 
come to our Brother Knight." (One rap.) 

All gather around and shake hands. 

Chancellor Commander. — u Lodge will be at ease until 
the sound of the gavel at the Chancellor Commander's station. 



REMARKS ON THIRD RANK. 

Of the injurious effects produced by the grand titles used by 
the order of Knights, we giv^e the result of the opinion of the 
citizens of the United States as expressed in their National 
Constitution Sec. 9 : paragraph 7. 

"No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States ; and 
no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall 
without the consent of Congress, accept of any present, emolu- 
ment, office or title of any kind whatever, from any King, Prince 
or foreign State." 

The offensive boasting of Bravery taught in the third degree 
must be repugnant to every truly brave and well balanced mind. 

"Though I were perfect yet would I not know my Soul." Job 9 ;21 

"Where is boasting then? It is excluded." Rom. 3 ; 27. 

In the last days when perilous times come men shall be "boast- 
ers"* * * * See 2 Tim. 3:1,2. 

The bravery test in the third degree, reminds us of a story 
illustrating the estimate placed on such unnecessary tests of cour- 
age by a genuine Knight of the olden time. 

He with his lady love were seated together witnessing a fight 
of furious, hungry wild beasts in the arena below. The lady's 
glove fell into the arena. Said she, if you are loving and brave, 
bring me my glove. His pride led him to show his courage by 
entering the fearful arenaand recovering the glove amidst shouts of 
applause from the crowds of shallow spectators ranged around. 
But the generous impulses of his soul were so severely shocked 
by the criminal wickedness and want of sensibility of a request 
to jeopardize his life for the recovery of a glove that he was 
constrained to show his scorn for such a spirit by throwing the 
glove into the lady's face and leaving her tor ever. 
The deceit connected with the bravery test aggravates rather than 
lessens the contemptible nature of the spike farce in the third 
rank. 

Can any candid, noble nature uphold an institution after becom- 
ing aware that it systematically practices such chicanery? 






59 



INITIATION. 




Amended, Perfected and Amplified Ancient and Chivalric Form 

OF THE 

THIRD RANK, KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. 

Note:— This Rank and the "regular" Third Rank are substantially one; 
only differing in the mode of conferring. No man who has taken either 
of them will receive the other third rank. 

The Perfected and Amplified Rack is conferred in but a few wealthy 
lodges, because of the great expense attending the purchase of the 
apparatus for conferring it. 

The Esquire is taken to the ante-room 
when he is instructed by the Master at 
Arms to say, in answer to any direct 
interrogatory made of him, "By what 
right does he make this demand ?" the 
answer will be, "By that of being a 
brave man," or else get the candidate to 
authorize him— the Master at Arms — 
to do so for him, after which he is 
blindfolded, the shield put on his left 
fore-arm as in the preceding Rank ; he is then conducted to the 
inner door, upon which there is no shield; the Master at Arms 
gives two raps, which are answered in the same manner from 
within, and the wicket is opened. 

Inner Guard. — "Who comes here? Who dares to interrupt 
the proceedings of this Lodge while working in the Third, or 
Chivalric Rank of Knight ?" 

Master at Arms. — "Esquire John Brown, who having received 
the First, or Initiatory Rank of Page, been proved in the Second 
or Armorial Rank of Esquire, and passing a fair ballot, now de- 
clares himself a Brave man, and as such demands admittance to 
this Lodge of the Third, or Chivalric Rank of Knight.'' 

Inner Guard (closes wicket.) — "Chancellor Commander, there 
is without an Esquire who has received the First or Initiatory 
Rank of Page, been proved in the Second or Armorial Rank of 
Esquire, and now demands admittance to this Lodge of the Third 
or Chivalric Rank of Knight." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Bj^ what right does he make this 
demand?" 

Inner Guard. — "By reason of having been initiated, proved, 
passing a fair ballot, and boasting himself a Brave man." 



60 

Chancellor Commander. — "Such being his pledge and demand 
and having attained the necessary preparatory Rank, it is my 
order as Chancellor Commander that you let him enter without 
further challenge." 

The Master at Arms conducts the Esquire around the Castle 
Hall once and halts before the chair of the Chancellor Com 
mander. 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, Esquire John 
Brown, who has been duly initiated as a Page, and proved as an 
Esquire, in this Chivalric Order, desires to receive the highest 
Rank conferred by this Lodge, by being instructed in the myste- 
ries and passing through the ordeal that all brave Knights have 
done who have reached this summit of Pythian honors." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Esquire, is this your demand ?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Upon entering this Castle Hall as 
a Retainer, seeking the First or Initiatory Rank of Page, a re- 
quirement was exacted from and of you ; do you remember what 
it was, and if so, will you state its nature?" 

Candidate. — Obedience*" 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, are 
you satisfied that the Esquire remembers and fully appreciates 
this requirement sufficient to advance him in our highest hon 
ors?" 

(All.)— "We are." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Upon attaining the First or Initia- 
tory Rank of Page in this order, you were taught one great les- 
son. Do you remember what it was, and if so will you be kind 
enough to state the same ?" 

Candidate. — "Friendship." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, has 
the Esquire who demands advancement in our order merited as 
well as received your Friendship." 

(All.)— "He has." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Upon reaching and being proved 
in the Second or Armorial Rank of Esquire of this order, you 
were taught another great lesson. Will you slate what it was?" 

Candidate.— "Caution." 

Chancellor Commander.— "Brethren of the Knight's Rank, hap 



61 

the Esquire who stands before you as a candidate for the Third or 
Chivalric Rank of Knight, proven himself, to the best of your 
knowledge and.belief, obedient, prudent, cautious and watchful ?" 

(All.)— "He has/' 

Chancellor Commander. — "This being so, Esquire, I can see no 
just reason why you should not be permitted to proceed in this 
Chivalric Order; but it is my duty to inform you that your cour- 
age ami confidence may be put to a severe test during the cere- 
monies through which you are about to pass, but should such be 
the will of those around you assembled, and if, as you declare in 
your demand, you are a Brave man, and will implicitly obey all 
the orders given you, and requirements exacted during its pro- 
gress, no accident can possibly befall you. On the contrary, if 
you are not a man of iron nerve, or if you have made this de- 
mand from an unworthy motive, I tell you plainly and sincerely 
that I cannot be answerable for any Injury you may receive. To 
assure you, however, that this Lodge, its officers and members 
fully appreciate your position, I will, as Chancellor Commander, 
state that the ordeal you may have to undergo is one, not only 
dangerous in character, but of a fearful nature. Should your 
vaunted bravery fail you at the crowning point of its 
consummation, by it we as an order prove and exemplify the fact 
as to whether you have been truthful in your former protestations 
of Friendship, such as was exhibited by Damon towards Pythias, 
or the Caution, though unwise, as shown by Lucullus in slaying 
his master's horse to preserve his life. 

"Heretofore you have answered readily and promptly the in- 
terrogatories as made in the former and preceding grades of rank 
but the answers now to be given are of too serious a nature to be 
lightly made, and I would therefore ask your greatest considera- 
tion before so doing; but to give you a last opportunity to elect 
for yourself, I will state that it is not too late, if you so desire, to 
be escorted hence and permitted to retire, (pause). With the 
official assurance from me that no accident can befall an obedient 
and friendly person, who is not only cautious but a truly brave 
man, aspiring to the high rank of Knight, I ask, as Chancellor 
Commander, in the name of this Lodge, its officers and members 
around you assembled, do you still persist in your demand ?" 

Candidate answers. 



62 

Chancellor Commander. — "Are you willing to take upon your 
self a, solemn and binding obligation to keep forever secret the 
mysteries of this Chivalric Rank of Knight?" 

Candidate answers. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, yon will conduct 
the Esquire to our Prelate, who will administer the obligation of 
the Third and Chivalric Rank of Knighthood in this Order." 

Master at Arms presents candidate before the Prelate at the 
Altar, opposite to and facing him. 

Master at Arms.— "Prelate, by order of the Chancellor Com. 
mander of this Lodge, I present Esquire John Brown, who hav- 
ing been initiated as a Page and proved in the Second or Armo- 
rial Rank of Esquire, now declares himself a Brave man, and as 
such demands that he be obligated in the Third or Chivalric Rank 
of Knight in this Order." 

Prelate. — "Esquire John Brown, do you declare yourself a 
Brave man, and make this demand of your own volition?" 

Candidate answers. 

Prelate- — "Master at Arms, why is he thus blindfolded ?" 

Master at Arms. — "That he might be conducted through this 
Castle Hall without being able to discover any of the secrets or 
ceremonies of the Knight Rank of our Order, should he fail to 
insist in his demands before the Chancellor Commander." 

Prelate. — "Since the Esquire insists in his demands, you will 
remove the hoodwink, (which being done, the Prelate continues,) 
and place him in proper position, at the Altar, to take the obli- 
gation, by advancing his shield in placing his left hand on his 
left breast, over the heart, advancing his right foot, his right 
hand resting on the Book of Law and grasping the hilt of the 
Sword of Defence before him as if making a parry with the 
sword, in which position he will assume the obligation." 

Master at Arms places candidate in proper position. 

Chancellor Commander. — (Two raps.) Attention Knights. 

Rise; form triangle and assist our Prelate in the administration 
of the solemn obligation. (See diagram.) 



63 

ADMINISTERING OBLIGATION THIRD OR C HIVALRIC RANK OF KNIGHT 

Candidate stands at altar as described, the prelate standing opposite, 
the Master at Arms behind and to the left of the candidate. 
The Knights form a triangle with the Chancellor Commander at its apex, 
the Vice Chancellor at the right corner and the Past Chancellor at the 
left corner. 



K. of R & S. 



Chancellor Com. 



M. of F&E. 



Master at Arms. 





P.O. 



Master at Arms Candidate. 
KKKKKKKK 



V. G. 



Inner Qnard. 




64 






The triangle being formed, the Chancellor Commander will 
order ; 

Chancellor Commander. — Attention Knights ! Handle swords ; 
draw swords ; carry arms. 

(Prelate rising goes to and enters the head of the triangle, and 
assumes his position at the Altar, the Candidate and Master at 
Arms already having assumed theirs, when all being in their 
proper position, the Past Chancellor, Chancellor Commander and 
Vice Chancellor leave their stations and go to the corners at head 
and base of the triangle, when the Chancellor Commander orders 
"Rest!" and the Prelate proceeds.) 

Obligation Amended, Perfected and Amplified Third 
Rank. 

"(You will now repeat after me.) I, (your name) do most sol- 
emnly and sincerely promise and declare, under the penalties of 
my former obligations, that I will never reveal, "directly or in- 
directly, any of the signs, tokens or mysteries of this Rank of 
Bravery, or those of any other Rank of the Knights of Pythias, 
to any person not properly authorized by this, or a Lodge work- 
ing under the control of a regularly constituted Grand Lodge, 
recognized by the Supreme Ledge Knights of Pythias of the 
World, to receive the same ; except it be a just and lawful Knight, 
whom I shall know to be legally entitled to receive the same, or 
within the Castle Hall of a just and regularly constituted Lodge, 
subordinate to the Supreme Lodge, Knights of Pythias of the 
World. 

"I further promise and declare, never to communicate, by word, 
syllable, letter, sign or character, the semi-annual password to 
any person, save and except the proper officers within a Lodge, 
or in course of duty, acting in capacity of Chancellor Com- 
mander, Grand Chancellor or his deputy, or Supreme Chancellor 
or his deputy. 

4 I further promise to obey all orders that may be given me, 
emanating from the Supreme, Grand, this or any other Lodge of 
this Order of which I may become a member, or any competent 
authority issuing the same, so long as they do not conflict with 
my political or religious liberty. And if I ever, by word or 



65 

sign, expose the secret work or ceremonies of this Order, in an 
unauthorized manner, or fail in any of my obligations, may I 
suffer all the anguish and torments possible for man to suffer. 
All this I promise and declare, without any mental reservation 
whatever. So help me God> and keep me steadfast." 

''Prelate. — "Esquire John Brown, in testimony of your sincer- 
ity, you will now kiss the Book that is open before yon, which 
is our Book of Law, the Holy Bible.'' (Kisses the book.) 

Prelate. — "Esquire, you have now taken the obligation that 
ties you to us, and I hail you as an aspirant to the honors due to 
a Knight of this Order. You must ever remember your obliga- 
tion, and the purpose of your shield in the Second or Armorial 
Rank of Esquire in this Order. You have seen how easily you 
might have fallen into an error, but for the interposition of a 
brother. Let the solemnity of that occurrence be ever present in 
your mind and emblazoned upon your shield and memory, to 
stimulate you to fulfill and keep inviolate every obligation taken 
by you. The obligation to which you have just subscribed, im- 
poses a condition to obey all orders which may be given you, so 
long as they do not conflict with your civil or religious liberty. 
You have also stated in this Lodge that you are a man of cour- 
age. That assertion remains yet to be proven ; My friend have 
confidence and all is well. Farewell ! (Prelate steps aside from 
the Altar, face about to the Chancellor Commander and says :) 

Prelate. — "Chancellor Commander, the Esquire has been obli- 
gated and cautioned. 

Chancellor Commander (from his position at the head of the 
triangle.) — "Master at Arms, conduct hence this Esquire, equip 
him as becomes his rank and give him courteous guidance to the 
"Ten in Council, " who shall for us decide what test of bravery 
the Esquire bears. 

Attention, Knights! Break files at center base of triangle. 
[The four files break to the rear— (see diagram)-— candidate and 
Master at Arms pass out — which being done, the Chancellor 
Commander orders :] Close triangle ; return swords ; about face; 
to posts march ; be seated. 



K, of R. & S. 



C. C. 



M. of F & E. 



Master at Anns. 



c. 



* 



Jt 



% 



£ 



* 




* 



Master at Arms. Candidate 



** Z Z Z 



K K K v.c. 






Inner Guard, j 



As 



Master at Arms conducts candidate to ante-room, relieves him 
of his shield, clothes him with the uniform Belt of the Order, 
without sworcl or scabbard, and puts sandals on his feet. The 
Council of Ten being in readiness, of which he is notified by a 
single rap on the door by the "Warder of the Gate," the Master 
at Arms approaches and gives several loud raps in quick suc- 
cession. 

THE COUNCIL OF TEN 

is composed of the following personages: 

King, represented by the Prelate. 

"Warder of the Gate," represented by the Inner Guard. 

"Nine Councillors," known respectively as "First Councillor," 
"Second Councillor," etc. 

The Council is held in the Lodge-room, or some chamber spe- 
cially prepared. If the former, the lower end should be occupied 
by the Council, the King being seated in the Vice Chancellor's 
chair, facing the Councillors, who are seated in a semi-circle 
about him. The King and Councillors should be clothed in full 
uniform of the Order, or in suits of armor — all being either vis- 
ored or masked. 



DIAGRAM OF LODGE ROOM, ARRANGED FOR COUNCIL OF TEN. 



K. of R & S. 



P. C 



ill] 




Candidate, 



Master at Arms- 

c 



a * ff 




Inner Guard. 



M. ofF&E. 



( r relate J 



69 

The Knights and visitors are seated as usual around the room, 
masked and in black robes or uniform of the order 

Councillors in full armor or uniform, seated, with visors down 
or masked. 

CEREMONIES IN OPENING COUNCIL OP TEN. 

Enter King of Council, (announced by the Warder of the Gate, 
"The King!' 1 ) Councillors all arise and remain standing, King 
ascends the throne, raising his visor. 

King.— "Brethren, with knightly courtesy I greet you. Are all 
here ? 

Warder of the Gate (saluting). — "They are, most knightly 
King." 

King. — "Up visors, gentlemen, that you and I may know each 
one the other." 

(All raise their visors, or unmask.) 

King. — "I see here now the nine true Knights who, with my- 
self, do constitute the "Ten," from whose decision there is no 
appeal ; whose edicts once sent lorth are to the inmates of our 
Castle Hall established law. Questions of deep import exercise 
our mind, and in due time the matter shall be cognizant to all. 
I now declare this Council formed,and on my honor as a Knight, 
I pledge myself to secrecy, swearing the same by my extended 
sword." 

King draws and extends his sword, and Knight Councillors 
drawing, cross their swords thereon, (or if unarmed, extend and 
lay their right hand thereon,) and say, 

"And I," "and I," "and I," etc. 

King. — "Amen." 

(King withdraws his sword returns it to the scabbard, then 
takes his seat.) 

King. — "Be seated. Warder, make fast our gates. Knights, 
in view of those who may the presence of this Council seek, 
'twere well that each one drop the visor o'er his face." 

(Loud knocking at the inner door.) 

King. — "What means this boisterous clamor at our gate ? One 
of you away and bring us tidings of the cause." 

Warder of the Gate goes to the door, raises wicket, through 
which he receives a parchment ; closes wicket and going to 1he 
center of the Council circle and directly in front of the King, 
reports; 



70 

Warder of tlie Gate.— "Most knightly King, without I found a 
brave and valiant Knight, leading an Esquire in pilgrim garb,for 
whom he seeks the right to wear the high prized honor of the 
golden spur, and sends this voucher of his equity. " 

(Hands parchment to King, who peruses the same and says :) 

King. — "As he is vouched for by our well tried friend as being 
made of honest, manly stuff, there stands no reason to withhold 
the boon, if we shall find him as endorsement states, a brave and 
worthy man. Admit him to the presence of the Ten." 

The Warder of the Gate goes to and opens the door. Master at 
Arms with candidate enters and assumes a position outside semi- 
circle, at the center and opposite the King. 

Master at Arms.— "Most knightly King and brothers of our 
band, I here present an Esquire I have known, bearing an honest 
name among his fellow men, and being gifted with patrician soul 
he seeks to rise above the common herd and prove himself a man 
of iron nerve — a fit companion for these well tried knights." 

King. — "At your request, and without waste of speech, I bid 
this Council on the test decide ; asking the pilgrim if he still 
peisist?" 

Candidate.— "I do." 

First Councillor (rising and addressing the King and Council.) 
— "I would decree that he be made to spring from off the summit 
of yon beetling cliff, down to the fretful waves that surge below." 
(Resumes his seat.) 

Second Councillor (rising). — "That were to bid him spring to 
certain death; the quick descent would filch his necessary wind, 
and we might lose a valiant knight thereby: rather let us stretch 
his naked frame over a furnace of white heated coals, and if his 
lips are parted by a moan, vote him not fit to sit within our Hall." 
(Resumes his seat.) 

Third Councillor (rising). — "The last named test were scarce 
less fatal than the one before, the chance of life depending on the 
briefness of the ordeal. In lieu of these, I do propose that he be 
made to leap upon a score of tempered spikes, set in a solid slab 
of living oak; and when they pierce his naked, tender feet, let 
each one prime his ears to catch the groaning of each new born 
pain." (Resumes his seat.) 

Fourth Councillor (who is seated at one extreme end of semi- 
Circle, rises and addresses King alone.)— "Most knightly King* 



71 
methought I saw a shade of hesitation passing o'er the pilgrim's 
face; aye, more, I'll wager me it was most arrant fear, and by my 
spurs I doubt he hath this courage that he claims." (Resumes 
his seat.) 

Fifth Councillor (seated at the other extreme of semicircle, ris- 
ing and addressing the King and Council.)— " Aye, fear it was, 
most certainly, for with my eyes I ^saw him quail, and cast a 
troubled glance around as if for pity, which we as knightly 
councillors know naught of, save for distress and those of gentler 
sex." (Resumes his seat.) 

King (to candidate, earnestly).— "It grieves me much that one 
so recommended, and deemed by his good guide both resolute 
and brave, should by a tremor show his dread of test. Pilgrim 
Esquire, ere you can wear the insignia of a Knight— the golden 
spur, denotive of your manhood and true courage— your feet 
must tread the drear and ofttimes dangerous path to Pythian 
honors, and you must show by acts that wear the native hue of 
bravery that you are worthy of the rank to which we can advance 
you. Despite your show of fear, you cannot now withdraw, but 
on the choosing of these Knights, must go where they dictate — 
and go alone, save that old Pluto bear you company, and as a 
guardian he were worse than none. 

Sixth Councillor (rising, draws his sword, presents, and after 
the words "Most knightly King," comes to a carry.) — "Most 
knightly King, I would vouchsafe a word on this poor pilgrim's 
part, telling my story with all briefness that I may. At one time 
in the rage of battle, by a foeman's lance my horse and I were 
parted 'gainst our wills ; and as I lay both spent and bleeding on 
the ground, a youth, a simple Page, passed by in course of duty, 
and looking back he saw me helpless on our mother earth, the 
life blood oozing from my gaping wounds : quickly he tore his 
doublet into strips and staunched their flow, then bore me off to 
safe and shady nook, and by his gentle care 1 live to-day. In 
view of this I registered a vow to help a Page, aye, Esquire or 
Knight, who needed aid, to succor him from ill ; and 'fore this 



Esquire I renew my vow, and proffer him protection it he crave 
it." (Moves towards the candidate and remains standing, as if to 
assume his part in whatever it may be decreed he shall do.) 

Seventh Councillor (rising and addressing the King). — "Most 
knightly King, the words just spoken honor him who gave them 
utterance, and yet it were not well that one so high in rank, so 
great on field of battle, so loved among his brother knights, 
should risk his life for this* Esquire, with whom we have but 
slight acquaintance, and who, I doubt, can ever take the place of 
one so tried as our brave brother. Who wears the spurs should 
win them, and thus for caution's sake, and for prudential reasons 
I would urge that this man carve his way to the high honor he 
sees fit to claim. It would most seemly be (turning to the Coun- 
cil), that one and all reject, without debate, the offer made." 

Council (all rising). — "We do reject it." (Council are all seat- 
ed except Sixth Councillor.) 

King. — " 'Tis well, and be it understood, most valiant Knight, 
that you remain, (Sixth Councillor resumes his seat) while you 
Esquire, will win alone the spurs you seek to wear. And now 
brave Knights, by favor of our friend, let each man cast his lot; 
taking the colors as the tests were named — blue for the first, yel- 
low the next and red the third." 

Master at Arms distributes to King and each Councillor three 
slips of paper, blue, yellow and red respectively; then collects 
them in a suitable manner, each one depositing his red paper 
and retaining the other two. Master at i*xms presents receptacle 
to King, who examines the ballot and says : 

King.-— "The third is chosen. Away with him and bid old 
Pluto put him to the test." 

Master at Arms saluting King with sword, retires with candi. 
date. 

King (rising to his feet, drawing his sword and coming to a 
carry). — "By virtue of my will this Council stands dissolved." 

The Council rise to their feet, and opening at the center, swing 
back and close up their lines, facing inward, at the same time 



78 



drawing their swords, bringing them to a carry, and as the King 
moves down, present arms all together, (or if unarmed, make mil- 
itary salute). The King passes between the two ranks, and ar- 
riving at the end of the lines, faces about and salutes, when he 
orders : 

King. — "Carry arms — about face — to your posts march, and be 
seated.' ' 

[This ends the ceremony. See diagram.] 

DISSOLVING COUNCIL OF TEN. 



K. of R & S. 



P. Chan. 



Inner Guard. 



Chan. Com. 




King. 



o>U 


Oqc 


l-O 


C1& 


w© 


OH 


too 


a*» 



M. of F. & E. 



(Prelate 



74 

The Lodge-room is darkened, made as nearly as possible to rep- 
resent a wilderness. To the right of the Chancellor Command- 
ers's station is an elevation representing a mound, on which is 
laid a complete skeleton,(or its representation.) On the right of 
the Vice Chancellor is placed a mock cauldron, in which is burn- 
ed some red fire, round which are gathered some of the Knights 
robed in black and masked, apparently wrangling over the con- 
tents. The cue for igniting the red fi>e and grouping around the 
cauldron, is the utterance by Pluto, of the following words: " I 
left him there to fatten up the bloodhounds of this wilderness." 

Pluto is seated in the center of the room, dressed in a suit of 
silver mail, cavalier cloak of black, trimmed with silver lace, 
suspended from left shoulder ; helmet similar to that worn by 
tke herald Mercury ; and sword. [Pluto is represented by the 
Past Chancellor or by some other qualified person.] 

Master at Arms enters with candidate, clothed as when before 
the Council of Ten, walks slowly towards the center of the room 
and halts about one-half way between the door and Pluto. 

Pluto (looking up). — "Who dares to break the stillness of 
eternal night by wandering past the limits of the earth to my 
most dread abode ? Beats there a heart with slow and measured 
pulse when standing at the gate of Pluto's wild domain ?" 

Master at Arms.— ''Imperial Prince, behold a well-tried 'Squire 
who craves the honors af his knightly spurs, and boasts himself 
a brave, courageous man. Ere we accord this honor that he 
craves, we do appeal to you, the potent king of this most I arren 
waste, to test him to the quick, and if he lacks the courage that 
he boasts, let his flesh blister in yon furnace iieat, till dropping 
from the bones, it leaves a calcined record on the road, to warn 
others of the coward's fate/' 

Master at Arms, leaving the candidate 1 standing there, retires 
out of sight. 

Pluto (rising and approaching candidate). — "Welcome, thou 
denizen of earth. If thou art brave I will conduct the safe, and 
recommend thee for thy knightly spurs; but if thy cheek show 
hut a tinge of that white-livered hue that 1 have called the coun- 
tersign of fear; if thy strong limbs but for a moment shake and 
tremble like an aspen in the road, bid then farewell to earth! 
(Takes candidate by the right arm.) Come, let US go, and as you 



75 

tread, beware! for deadly adders swaroi in your path, whose foul 
envenomed fangs would quickly still the beating of your heart." 

Stoops as if catching something from the ground, and exhibits 
an imitation snake, that he had concealed on his person. 

Phito. — "See ! here is one, that springing from the pregnant 
ground would, but for the power I hold, have fastened on your 
flesh ; and still another (other snakes are seen on the floor that 
they are likely to tread on) creeps around my foot. Be brave, 
and all is well!" 

[An imitation mound with skeleton thereon.] 

"Look on yon mound ; there lies the framework of a coward 
soul, who wandering round with me as you do now, trembled 
to hear the howling of wild beasts. This show of fear invoked 
my wrath, and with a swoop of my avenging sword, I left him 
there to fatten up the bloodhounds of this wilderness." 

[The cauldron is set on fire.] 

"Ah! yonder leaps the red and lurid flame! (A mock cauld- 
ron with colored fire, surrounded by masked knights robed in 
black, is seen at further end of Lodge-room.) Note how it licks 
around that coward's bones, and boils the water of his stagnant 
blood ! My sable band hold royal feast over a victim that I slew 
last night; see how they quarrel o'er his livered blood, and 
wrangle for a dish full of his brains ! Ere yet trie hand of death 
had stopped the twitching of his livid limbs, and while he 
writhed beneath the fatal blow, they plucked his hair out by the 
roots, twisted his nails from out their fleshy bed and rubbed 
saltpetre on his gaping wounds. 

"Ho! one of you, come quickly hither and produce the test!" 

[Vice Chancellor, who is robed in black and masked, ap- 
proaches and presents the test. Pluto takes it.] 

"I have provided here, b}^ order of the 'Ten,' a goodly combi- 
nation of tough wood and steel; take it yourself that you may 
see the points." 

[Hands it to candidate, who takes and examines it.] 

Pluto. — "Of its keen sharpness are you well assured ?" (Pluto 
tries it with his sword.) 

Candidate answers. 

Pluto to Vice Chancellor. — "Begone, and place it on the testing 
spot!' 1 



76 

[Yice Chancellor takes it from the candidate, carries it to the 
testing spot, where it is put in position in full view of the candi- 
date, and the change made by the Yice Chancellor at the proper 
time and quietly as possible.] 

[Pluto, in an unconcerned and careless manner, turns the can- 
didate with his back to the testing spot, and placing his hands 
upon the candidate's shoulders, looks him square in the eyes tD 
attract his attention while saying :] 

Pluto. — "Come, let me gaze into your eyes, those well springs 
of the soul, from which out flash the hidden secrets of the heart! 
When Adam fell from his primeval bliss, tempted by me through 
unsuspecting Eve, I made him deaf to 'Gabriel's cautioning 
tongue, lest he might stop, considering, on the brink, and waxing 
brave, upset my plans for peopling this wild waste. Thus much 
is left of my angelic mould, that to the brave I give my knightly 
hand to bear them safe o'er this unhallowed soil : but to the man 
of w y eak and reedy nerve I leave the wooing of my untamed imps 
that seek an introduction to his blood." 

[At this moment the curtain at the chair of the Chancellor 
Commander is drawn aside and the Chancellor Commander is 
seen, dressed in a scarlet robe, with a white cross upon his breast, 
a gilt crown upon his head and a gilt cross, as a sceptre, in his 
hand. Pluto, turning, se< s him, (trembling,) says:] 

Pluto. — "Before that awful emblem of my great defeat I bow 
in mute despair, and leaving 3 ou in guardianship of him whose 
word to me is law, I vanish from your sight." 

[Pluto retires out of sight, as noiselessly as possible, and lays 
aside his robes, etc.] 

Chancellor Commander descending frum and leaving his sta- 
tion, takes the candidate by the left arm, so as to keep him away 
from the test while the board with iron spikes is slily replaced 
with one with rubber spikes, addresses him while leading him 
around finally to the testing spot, as follows : 

Chancellor Commander. — "Esquire, it was decreed by the 
Grand Council who essayed you here, that as a proof of your 
obedience and unflinching nerve, you jump with naked feet upon 
that instrument of torture, I bid you now make bare each ten- 
der foot, and at the instant that I orders give, leap on those brist- 
ling points." 



77 

[Master at Arms assists him to take off his sandals and ascend 
the eminence.] 

Chancellor Commander, (to the Knights).— "Come, one and all, 
and bear him witness in the act, and if he fail, conduct ye as ye 
will." 

[Knights assemble around without further command, with 
swords at a carry. All being ready, the Chancellor Commander 
continuing, says :] 

Chancellor Commander.— "Now, if you are u, brave and steel- 
souled man, Leap down !" 

[In case he refuses, after a third command, the Chancellor Com- 
mander steps forward, puts his foot on it and then requires the 
candidate to do it; both feet must go on.] 

Chancellor Commander (returning to his station). — "Attention 
Knights ! return swords ; about face ; posts march ; be seated." 

[After the ceremonies, the candidate puts on his sandals and is 
conducted to the station of the Chancellor Commander, the cos- 
tumes of each having been laid aside, or not, as may be desired.] 

Chancellor Commander (to candidate). — "My friend, the cere- 
monies you have passed through were not conceived in idle 
sport to trifle with your feelings, but to convey a practical lesson 
to your mind in a manner so impressive as not to be easily effaced. 
You was brought into the presence of our armed council to re- 
mind you that good men are always clad in the bright armor of 
Truth and Virtue, from which the shafts of Vice and Falsehood 
fall harmlessly to the ground. 

"You was vouched for by a friend to show the necessity of an 
upright life if we would enter into the habitations of the good 
beyond the gave. A lesson of Friendship was given you when 
standing alone and unprotected, by one to you unknown, who 
volunteered to bear, in your behalf, the test on which the Council 
might decide; but Caution to the rescue came and bade you go 
alone, lest we might lose the counsels of a well-tried Knight, for 
the rash promptings of a reckless but well-meaning mind. 

"Then you was led through a wilderness, to remind you of 
life's journey ; that we have no abiding city here, nor is the pros- 
pect sufficiently inviting to induce us to seek to wander here for- 
ever, even if we could. 

"You was beset by snakes and adders to remind you of the trials 



and temptations of life; and in the fleshless form exhibited to 
you, you saw the penalty of Cowardice. Such is the punishment 
that awaits the soul that lacks the moral courage to stand bravely 
out, catching the shafts of Error upon the shield of Purity, and 
hewing Falsehood with the sword of Truth. 

"You was then shown a scene indicative of the evil passiona 
of man — evincing his readiness to rejoice in the downfall of his 
neighbor. The sudden vanishing of your conductor before the 
symbol of the cross, was to convey to your mind that there is a 
time when the evil doer will blanch before the stern face of jus- 
tice, although his wickedness may seem to prosper for a season. 

"Lastly, you was led to a place where your faith was put to the 
extremest test ; you was there taught a lesson of obedience, but 
greater than all, you was shown that if you have only the moral 
heroism and stamina to face manfully the dangers that apparent- 
ly surround you, you will find them mere shadows that vanish at 
the first blow. 

"Such are the moral convictions we have striven to print indel- 
ibly on your mind, and we trust that your intercourse with the 
world at large will prove the lessons have not been in vain. 

"Master at Arms, conduct our friend to the chair of the Vice 
Chancellor for further insight to our mysteries." (Master at 
Arms does so.) 

Master at Arms (to Vice Chancellor). — "Obedient to command, 
Vice Chancellor, I present this candidate to you to be instructed 
in our secret work." 

[If he obeyed command to jump on the soikes the Vice 
Chancellor says :] 

Vice Chancellor. — "As a brave man I extend you cordial greet- 
ing, and now proceed to give you knowledge of our secret work, 
that you may know that he who wears the spurs has fairly won 
them" 

[If he was not obedient the Vice Chancellor says :] 

Vice Chancellor. — u As a brave and obedient man I cannot give 
you cordial greeting, yet will, in consideration of the many trials 
you have undergone, proceed to give you knowledge of our secret 
work, that you may know that he who wears the spurs should 
fairly win them." 



79 




SIGN OF BRAVERY OR COURTESY,TIILRD RANK. 

Form a triangle with forearms extending hor- 
izontally from you, points of ringers and thumbs 
together and spread out; heel of hands about 
five inches apart. See cut. This is called the 
visor sign. 




VISOR SIGN ON ENTERING LODGE. 

On entering to salute the Chancellor Com- 
mander, raise visor so as to touch the breast with 
the forefingers, the thumbs pointing downward. 
Hands are then separated and with a gentle wave 
are brought to the side. 







YISOR SIGN ON RETIRING FROM LODGE. 

On retiring approach the Altar, face the 
Chancellor Commander and turn the visor 
(hands) down, so that the thumbs point up 
and the fingers down and then bring hands to 
side with a gentle wave. 



80 

The Countersign, given by the Chancellor Commander, is same 
as sign or a wave of the hand. The Password, given at the inner 
door, is Confidence. The Alarm at the inner door is two raps. 
The Grip is given in this manner: 







GRIP, THIRD RANK. 

Take each other by the right hand as for 
ordinary hand shake. When withdrawing 
hands press each other's forefinger with 
thumb and forefinger, gently, the whole 
length of finger, slightly crooking the ends 
of the forefingers and hooking or pressing 
them together at the points. 



Yice Chancellor. — "Master at Arms, }^ou will now conduct our 
newly tried and instructed brother to the Chancellor Commander 
for final examination, instruction and enrollment on the roster of 
this Lodge, as having that Rank. (He does so.) 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander, by direction of the 
Vice Chancellor of this Lodge, I present to you Brother John 
Brown, who has been instructed in the sign, countersign, pass- 
word and grip of the Third or Chivalric Bank of Knight, for 
final examination, instruction and enrollment on the roster of 
this Lodge as having that Bank." 

Chancellor Commander. — ''Brother John Brown, as an evidence 
of the attention paid to the instruction already given you, you 
will be kind enough to satisfy me that you are in possession of 
the sign 

Candidate gives the Visor Sign which he says is turned up on en- 
tering and down on retiring; the Countersign, same or a wave of 
the hiind; the Password, Confidence; the Alarm", two raps; the 
Grip, shake hands in ordinary manner, then press each other's 
forefinger, whole length of finger, gently, hooking the forefingers 
Blightly as the hands are withdrawn. 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, repair with our 
friend to the centre of our Castle Hall ; place him in due position 
to be dubbed a Knight." 



81 

[Master at Arms places candidate in centre of hall, and causes 
him to kneel upon the right knee near the altar.] 

Master at Arms. — "Chancellor Commander your orders have 
been obeyed." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Attention, Knights ! (all rise) Han- 
dle swords; draw swords; carry arms; forward and form triangle 
around candidate!" (See diagram, page 63.) 

[Knights, with swords at "carry," surround the candidate on 
three sides, forming, as near as possible, a triangle. The Chan- 
cellor Commander approaches and strikes candidate with the 
dat of his sword on right shoulder three times, saying :] 

Chancellor Commander. — "In the name of the Order Universal 
(one rap) and by power in me vested (one rap) as Chancellor 
Commander of this Lodge, (one rap) I bid thee rise and stand 
erect a Pythian Knight, (candidate rises) and in the presence of 
your conferes, I command you to be invested with the spurs your 
rank now entitles you to wear." 

[Master at Arms invests candidate with a spur on each heel.] 

Chancellor Commander. — "Attention, Knights ! Present arms! 
(if armed, if not) Salute !" 

[Knights present swords, (if armed,) if not, salute, by bringing 
right hand to head as if making a military salute.] 

Chancellor Commander (returning to his station). — "Carry 
arms ; return swords ; about face ; to your posts march !" (Knights 
march to their ordinary places in Lodge room.) 

Chancellor Commander. — "Knights! about face; be seated!" 

[The candidate and" Master at Arms remain standing in centre 
of hall.] 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, you will present 
the newly tried and made brother at the Chancellor Commander's 
station." (He does so.) 

Chancellor Commander. — "Knight John Brown, you have now 
passed through the Third or Chivalric RanK of Knight, and the 
highest that can be given you in this Lodge. The motto thereof 
is Bravery, you have been severely tested, and passed the ordeal 
unscathed, exemplifying in part your confidence in and willing- 
ness to adhere to all lawful mandates. Bravery is defined as 
courage, heroism, undaunted spirit, intrepidity and gallantry 
though there are other meanings to the term. There is a moral 
as well as a physical courage; the lesson inculcated in this in- 



82 

stance embraces them both. You are expected to be brave and 
courageous in upholding the rights of a brother ; maintaining 
the dignity of the order, or its tenets of Friendship, Charity and 
Benevolence, and though the uninitiated and skeptical person 
should deride, condemn or mock, ever stand ready to defend it 
and them from slur or sarcasm ; not that they would, in any man- 
ner take from it or its teachings the honor due, but let the world 
know that any shaft aimed thereat is as though received by your- 
self. Aiding thus in upholding our rights, usages and customs 
as a chivalric order, you strengthen and sustain our glorious 
principles, and more closely unite yourself with those who are 
linked together in the holy ties of brotherly love. Courage en- 
ables you to encounter difficulties and dangers with firmness and 
without fear of depression of spirits; it is also a constituent part 
of fortitude, which implies patience to bear continued suffering. 
Constitutional courage often forsakes its possessor in the hour of 
danger, but courage which arises from a sense of duty, like that 
of the noble Pythias when addressing the tyrant Dionysius:" 

"As thou'rt a husband and father, hear me — 
Let Damon go and see his wife and child 
Before he dies — for four hours respite him— 
Put me in chains ; plunge me into his dungeon 
As pledge for his return; do this — but this — 
And may the gods themselves buildup thy greatness 
As high as their own heaven." 

"Courage like this, when coupled with friendship, acts uni- 
formly. 

"Brother Knight John Brown, I have no fear but that you 
will prove yourself in like manner, Friendly, Cautious and Brave 
—ever ready to extend the strong hand of fellowship toward your 
brethren, and to stand by the courageous. In token whereof I 
greet you in Friendship, (gives grip of first rank) in Caution, 
(gives grip of second rank) in Bravery, (gives grip of third 
rank.) The Sign of recognition or Challenge Sign is: 



SIGN OF RECOGNITION OR CHALLENGE SIGN, THIRD 
RANK. 

Place left hand over the heart; right hand open, 
palm down and about the height of the hips, indi- 
cating the position your hands were in when you 
took the obligation. 

The answer is the same, indicating the same, it 
being simply the position your hands were in when 
assuming the obligation of the First, or Initiatory 
Rank of Page. 




The Voting Sign is: 



83 




VOTING SIGN. 

Clench the left hand and raise it 
about as high as the eyes. 

The Semi- Annual Password, as its 
name indicates, and which is given at 
the outer door, (the Rank Passwords 
are not,) is* — 



The Parry Sign is: 




PARRY SIGN. 

Bring sword to a "Present" and 
swing point from right to left as it to 
parry or ward off a blow. When sign 
is completed the right hand will be 
about a foot from the body and the 
sword will point about two feet in front 
of left foot. 



*The Semi-Anuual Pass Word from 



. July 1878 to Jau 187a wa* "B* VnUtd." 



84 



The Grand Honors are given thus : 




GRAND HONORS. 

Place the left hand on the heart and 
sword at a " present." 

SUPREME HONORS. 

Given like Grand Honors except that 
left forearm is held horizontal, extending 
directly forward, elbow at side, with Hand 
open and palm up. 



Chancellor Commander. — "Keeper of Records and Seal, you 
will now present the loster of this Lodge to our Brother Knight 
John Brown for enrollment. 

[Which being done, the Chancellor Commander aays:] 

Chancellor Commander. — "Master at Arms, you will now face 
the newly charged Brother Knight to the Lodge, and clothe him 
in the proper regalia or insignia of the Third, Chivalric and Hon- 
orable Rank of Knight." (Master at Arms does so.) 

Master at Arms. — 4< Chancellor Commander, your orders have 
been obeyed." 

Chancellor Commander (two raps). — "Officers, members and 

visitors of Lodge, No. — , Knights of Pythias, permit me 

to introduce to you Brother Knight John Brown, who has been 
regularly initiated in the First, Initiatory or Page, proved in the 
Second, Amorial or Esquire's, and fully charged in the Third, 
Chivalric, or Knight's Rank of this Order, in the usual ritual- 
istic and ceremonial, [examined in accordance with the law — 

should such be the case], and enrolled as a member of Lodge, 

No- — , Knights of Pythias. 

"Brethren, join with me in extending a hearty, sincere and 
chivalric welcome to our Brother Knight." (Mask is taken off.) 

Chancellor Commander (otie rap). — "Lodge will be at case un- 
til the sound of the gavel at the Chancellor Commander's sta- 
tion." 

[All gather around and shake hands.] 



85 
OFFICIAL VISITATIONS. 

F0 KM OF CEREMONIALS TO BE USED IN SUPREME OR GRAND 
OFFICIAL VISITATIONS. 

The Supreme or Grand Officer, being accompanied by (some 
onlauSfl dto act as) tbe Supreme or Grand Guide 
one quail do mem8 elyes in 

cr ^S^^*^ <*** *~» the 

nner door and works bis way into tbe Lodge in the ordinary 
manner wben, after tbe sign is taken up by tbe Chancellor Com 
ZX; or presiding officer, the Guide, while s.tandmg at the 

Altar, ?av.«. uc^cellor Commander, as tbe Supreme 

rofSTa^tcTsenty be) Guide, I am here to inform you 
(or Giancl, as tne case j officer— is m 

tbat tbe Supreme (or Grand)-gne the ^ offlcial visi . 

waU in f in the jJ^^ff^SSe hafe your Lodge in 
^Zstl^^l^^^ro^ honorsdue bis 
officewhen entering the Lodge d 

Chancellor Commander (sta nding) bupieiD ^ ug 

Guide, in the name ^ 
notification, and wih see mat tne P p the 

The Guide then gjj f^^^G^e of the Lodge, 

L ? dgeiS i:l y tforS tpu-p and'then goes in again The 
•who comes out ior tnat pu i d • the propei . alarm. 

•ZSSSX&'ZZSi'S^. ta « b- voice,.- 
»Who comes here?" Q accompanie d by the 

cellor Commander. Chancellor Com- 



86 

Chancellor Commander (two raps), — * 'Brethren, assist me in 
giving the Grand (or Supreme) honors." 

All do so, the Guide and Officer going to the Altar, give 
the proper sign of the rank, which is responded to by the Chan- 
cellor Commander, when the Guide escorts the Visiting Officer 
to the Chancellor Commander's station, at his right hand; the 
Chancellor Commander hands the Officer the gauntlet — or gavel 
of authority, who takes it and orders "Recover," when the honors 
are dropped — or swords brought to a carry — and if armed, says, 
"Return swords," then gives three raps, when all are seated, the 
Supreme or Grand Guide in a chair at the right of the Lodge 
Master at Arms, when the object of the visit is explained and 
gone into. When ready to retire, he delivers the gavel to the 
Chancellor Commander, who accepts, (and having been informed 
of their intention of retiring,) gives two raps and says : 

Chancellor Commander. — "Brethren, assist me in giving the 
Supreme (or Grand) honors," and the Supreme or Grand Officer, 
accompanied by his Guide, goes to the Altar — while the honors 
are being given, gives countersign and retires, when the Chan- 
cellor Commander orders, "Recover!" "return swords!" and seats 
the Lod^e in the usual manner. 



Remarks on Amplified Third Rank. 

The essential part of the ceremonies of each rank is the 
Obligation. 

In each rank the candidate is asked whether or not be is will- 
ing to take a solemn and binding obligation to keep forever 
secret the mysteries of the rank. 

"Let me read it first V" The candidate might reasonably reply. 
''J am commanded to prove all things in the Book of Law, the 
Holy Bible." (1 Thess. 5. 21.) 

"No! you cannot; but I as Chancellor Commander assure you 
that it will in no wise affect your religion or your politics." 

"What guarantee have I that your assurance is good ? You 
wear your title by virtue ot the votes of men who have dishonored 
the God of truth by not confessing His Son, and the Bible 
warns us not to trust in man". 

"Thus saith the Lord : Cursed be the man that trusteth in man." 
Jer. 17; 5 



87 

"When the Lord shall stretch out his hand, both he that helpeth 
shall fall and he that is hoipen shall fall down, and they all shall 
fail together." Isaiah 31 : 3. 

"1 must read the Obligation first, no prudent business man 
would sign a paper without first reading it." "The prudent man 
looketh w T ell to his going." Prov. 14: 15. 

" We have ail taken the oath. You know us, if you cannot 
conform to our usages you may retire." 

The obligations are Oaths ; oaths hid from the candidate except 
as he takes their requirements upon himself; and, "If a soul swear 
pronouncing with his lips to do evil or to do good, whatsoever 
it be that a man shall pronounce with an oath and it be hid from 
him ; when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty in one of these." 
Leviticus 5 ; 14. 

Whether, then, the obligations of the Knights of Pythias are 
bad or good each person taking them can here read the Divine 
verdict upon the act "Guilty." 

However, with this exposition in hand the oaths are not hid 
from us, and w T e have an opportunity to compare them with God's 
Word. The readers of this ritual can judge successfully whether 
or not the obligations conflict with the politics or religion of a 
Christian patriot, a person who recognizes God in Christ as the 
ruler of the state and also of the church. 

The first paragraph of each oath binds to absolute secrecy dur- 
ing life from all but a small though miscellaneous set of men, con- 
cerning the mysteries (passwords, grips, signs, etc.,) of the Knights 
of Pythias. 

If you are not a Christian, The Book of Law, God's Holy Word 
"Now commandeth all men everywhere to repent." Acts 17 : 30. 
Christ says "come unto me." Matt. 11 : 28. "Turn ye: turn ye." 
Ezekiel33: 11. 

The fact that you are a rebellious child does not release you 
from Christ's requirements. Give up your rebellion. 

Christ sa}^s: "Follow me," Matt. 16: 24; 4: 19; 9: 9,19:21. 
Luke 18: 22; 5: 27; 9: 59. John 12: 26; 21:22; 1:43. And 
no one can follow Christ in combining with a number of fellow- 
men in the concealment of matters of pretended or general interest . 
Christ "spake openly to the World." He says: "In secret have I 
said nothing '' John 18 : 20. 

Friend, the Book of Law shows that the first part of each obli- 
gation comes into direct antagonism with your duty. The 
assurance of the Chancellor Commander to the contrary notwith 
standing. 

How men can be Republicans in sentiment aud yet take vows of 



88 

obedience to an irresponsible despotic aristocracy in secret lodges 
is a strange anomaly. 

That such a rash vow is often repented at leisure the faot that 
forty -three thousand Knights in the State of Pennsylvania out of 
forty-five thousand, broke it by refusing obedience to an edict of 
the Grand Lodge, thus incurring, if the obligation is binding, the 
fearful self-imposed penalty of suffering all the anguish and tor- 
ments possible for man to suffer, shows. 

It is an historical fact that the Knights of the Dark Ages used 
to obtain oaths of persons by false pretenses and then make their 
dupes believe it to be their duty to fulfil them. A practice which 
gave rise to fearful abuses. 

But in the darkness of this modern Knighthood there is a gleam 
of light. The Knights do not in the obligations fulfil their 
assurance of non-interference with the politics and religion of the 
candidate, and since they fail in fulfilling their part of the 
agreement, of course the covenant is void. 

Still those taking these oaths are guilty. They have sinned by 
taking obligations that were hid from them, see Leviticus 5: 4 — 
6; aud also in promising to obey obligations at variance with the 
will of Christ as revealed in the Bible. And a person who finds 
himself in this sad condition should confess his sin. "He shall 
confess that he hath sinned in one ot these, " "If we confess our 
sins ; he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse 
us from all unrighteousness. " 1 John 1 : 9. 

"He that covereth his sins shall not prosper : but whoso confess- 
eth and forsaketh them shall have mercy." Prov. 28 : 13. 

The amplified form of the third rank, we believe no right 
minded person can read without horror. In the face of God's 
commands against swearing, unpremeditated profanity is awful; 
but words fail us wheu we contemplate a system which puts 
oaths into its regular order of exercises. The personification of 
Pluto the God of the infernal regions, (Satan) might be expected 
in such an assembly. And when the Knights who practice the 
amplified form of initiation, have concluded their demoniacal 
rites and "attend" while the prelate implores the blessing of Deity 
on their deliberations, can we avoid the fearful conclusion that 
the god of the lower regions rather than the dishonored, disobeyed, 
insulted Lord of the Holy Bible, attends and accepts their worship ? 

"I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacri- 
fice to devils and not to God : and I would not that ye should have 
fellowship with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord 
aud the cup of devils; ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table 
and of the table of devils." 1 Cor. 10: 20-21. 






89 

"Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but 
rather reprove them, for it is a shame even to speak of those 
things which are done of them in secret." Eph. 5 : 11-12. 

"Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil, that put 
darkness for light, and light for darkness.' ' Isaiah 5 : 20. 

"Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his 
thoughts ; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have 
mercy upon him ; and to our G-od for he will abundantly pardon." 
Isaiah 55 : 7 . 

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying : I am the light ot 
the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but 
shall have the light of life." John 8 : 12. 



90 

ENIGHTS OP PYTHIAS AT A GLANCE. 

FIRST OK INITIATORY RANK. 

The preparation of the candidate in this Rank consists in re- 
moving the coat and vest, putting on a White Robe and blind- 
folding Securely. The members all have Black Robes and Masks* 

SIGN OF FRIENDSHIP OR COURTESY. 

Form a link with the second finger of each hand, the back of 
the left hand up and the back of the right hand forward ; the 
forearms forming the base of a triangle. [See cut.] 




"The sign of Friendship or Courtesy, is always used on enter- 
ing or retiring fr&rn the Lodge when open in the Rank of Page. 
It is recognized by the Chancellor Commander by giving the 
same sign or by a waive of the hand." 




THE SIGN OF RECOGNITION. 

Is given thus : Place your right thumb 
near the end of your two first fingees of same 
hand as though holding a pen to write, then 
smooth the hair back over the right ear with 
the two fingers, nails next to the head, three 
times, and is answered by the person saluted 
with the left hand in same manner. 



91 




INAUDIBLE SIGN OF CAUTION. 

Raise right hand and with thumb and fore- 
finger squeeze the wings of the nose. This is 
clone three times, noiselessly, in quick succession 
drawing the hand six or eight inches from the 
nose after each squeeze. 

AUDIBLE SIGN OF CAUTION. 

Made in the same way as Inaudible Sign, but 
to attract attention.give a quick snuff each time 
as thumb and finger are being withdrawn from 
the nose. 

Answer. — Same as Sign. 




SIGN OF DISTRESS. 

Strike the hands together three times, right 
hand uppermost. 

There is a hailing word in connection with the 
Sign of Distress, which is nomad, (Damon back- 
wards). 
Answer . — itatuoo. 



GRIP, FIRST RANK. 

Each extend the right hand, opening the fingers between the 
second and third as shown in upper cut, and grasp each others 
first two fingers, closing the other fingers as shown in lower 
cut. 



1\\ ^— x"^ 




WORD OB COVER KEY TO GRIP. 

The Chancellor Commander and Master at Arms holding each 
other by the grip engage in the following colloquy: 
Chancellor Commander. — "Say what is this?" 
Master at Arms. — "A good thing." 

Chancellor Commander. — "Most people would say so." 
Master at Arms. — "Some would." 

Chancellor Commander. — "0, would they?" 
Master at Arms. — "No doubt." 

SECOND, OR RANK OF ESQUIRE. 

PREPARATION. 

The Page or Pages are taken to the ante-room in ordinary 
dress, and each one given a shield, which he is required to put 
on his left forearm, and from thence to the door of the Lodge, on 
the ontside of which is suspended a shield, on which the Master 
at Arms gives one rap." 



SIGN OF CAUTION OR COURTESY, RANK OP 
ESQUIRE. 

Place right elbow in left hand and gently 
clinch the chin with the right hand. (See 
cut.) 

Countersign in answer : Same or a 
wave of the hand by the Chancellor Com- 
mander. 

The Alarm: One rap. 








93 



SHIELD SIGN. 

Raise right hand perpendicularly, with the 
hand clinched as if in the act of striking a 
downward blow. Same position as when 
taking the obligation of this rank, (see cut.) 



GRir, RANK OF ESQUIRE. 

Grasp left hands, in ordinary way. No shake. 



THIRD, OR RANK OF KNIGHT. 

Note — The Si^ns, Grip, Tasp-word etc., of the Amplified Third Rank are 

the i-ame. 

The candidate is prepared in the same manner as in the Second 
Rank. 




SIGN OF BRAVERY OR COURTESY,THIRD RANK. 

Form a triangle with forearms extending hor- 
izontally from you, points of fingers and thumbs 
together and spread out; heel of hands about 
five inches apart. (See cut.) This is called the 
visor sign. 



94 




TTS0R SIGN ON ENTERING LODGE. 

On entering to salute the Chancellor Com- 
mander, raise visor so as to touch the breast with 
the forefingers, the thumbs pointing downward. 
Hands are then separated and with a gentle wave 
are brought to the side. 




V2s> 



TISOR SIGN ON RETIRING PROM LODGE. 

On retiring approach the Altar, face the 
Chancellor Commander and turn the visor 
(hands) down, so that the thumbs point up 
and the fingers down and then bring hands to 
side with a gentle wave. 



The Countersign, given by the Chancellor Commander, is same 
as sign or a wave of the hand. The Pass-word, given at the inner 
door, is Confidence. The Alarm at the inner door is two raps. 







GRIP, THIRD RANK. 

Take each other by the right hand as for 
ordinary hand shake. When withdrawing 
hands press each other's forefinger with 
thumb and forefinger, gently, the whole 
length of finger, slightly crooking the ends 
of the forefingers and hooking or pressing 
them together at the points. 



95 




SIGN OF RECOGNITION OR CHALLENGE SIGN. 

Place left hand over the heart; right hand open, 
palm down and about the height of the hips, indi- 
cating the position your hands were in when you 
took the obligation. 

The answer is the same, indicating the same, it 
being simply the position your hands were in when 
assuming the obligation of the First, or Initiatory 
Rank of Page. 



VOTING SIGN. 

Clench the left hand and raise it about 
as high as the eyes. 

SEMI-ANNUAL PASS WORD. 

The Semi-Annual Password, as its name 
indicates, and which is given at the outer 
door, (the Rank Passwords are not,) is* — 





PARRY SIGN. 

Bring sword to a "present " and swing 
point from right to left as if to parry or 
ward off a blow. When sign is com- 
pleted the right hand will be about a foot 
from the body and the sword will point 
about two feet in front of left foot. 



*The Semi-Annual Pass Word for the last half of 1878 (July to Jan. ) was 



96 




GRAND HONORS. 

Place the left hand on the heart and 
sword at a " present." 

SUPREME HONORS. 

Given like Grand Honors except that 
left forearm is held horizontal, extending 
directly forward, elbow at side, with hand 
open and palm up. 



m°&$® 



4 25 


2 00 


25 


. 2 00 


25 


2 00 


10 


75 


25 


2 00 


25 


2 00 


10 


1 00 


20 


1 50 


15 


1 25 


1 00 



PUBLICATIONS OF EZRA A. COOK & CO., CHICA&O. 

Freemasonry Exposed by Capt. "Win. Morgan ... 

do Per Dozen, post paid . 

Odd-Fellowship Illustrated ..... 

do Per Dozen, post paid .... 

Exposition of the Grange, Illustrated with Cuts ... 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . . 

Ritual Grand Army of the Republic- and Machinists .and Blacksmiths Union 

do Per Dozen, post paid . ... 

Knights of Pytnias Illustrated ....... 

do Per Dizen, postpaid .... 

History of the Abduction and Murder of Capt. Win-. Morgan 
- do Per Dozen, post paid ... 

Valance, Confession of the Murder of Morgan ... 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . 

The Mystic Tye or Freemasonry a League with the Devil 

do Per Dozen, post paid .... 

Narratives and Arguments, showing conflict of Masonry with Laws 

do Per Dozen, post paid .... 

The Broken Seal Cloth Covers . - - . 

do paper covers . . . . _ .50 

do In Paper Covers Per Dozen, post paid . . . 4 00 

Secret Societies, Ancient and Modern, (by Gen'] Phelps, 240 pages . . 50 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . 4 75 
The Antirnasonic Scrap Book, (24 Cynosure Tracts bound) ... 80 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . „ 175 

College Secret Societies, by H. L. Kellogg - . . >» 35 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . • . 2 50 

Minutes of the Syracuse Convention . - . . .25 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . 2 00 

Minutes of Tne Pittsburgh Convention .... 25 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . 2 00 

History of The National Christian Association .... 25 

do Pei Dozen, post paid . . . . 1 50 

Rev. W. P. McNarys Sermon on Masonry .... 05 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . _ .50 

Freemasonry Contrary to the Christian Religion ... 05 

do Per Dozen, post paid ..... 50 

Barnard's Reminiscences of Morgan Times . . . _ .10 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . . 1 00 

Judge Whitney's Defence before Grand Lodge of 111 . . . 15 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . ..125 

Masonry a work of Darkness . . . . . «, 15 

do Per Dozen, postpaid . . - . . I 25 

Thirteen Reasons why a Christian should not be a Freemason . 05 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . m .50 

Shall Christians fellowship Freemasons ?by Prest. H. H. Geopge . . 10 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . . .75 

Hon, John Quincy Adams' Letters on Masonry .... 50 

do Per dozen, post paid . . . . 4 00 
Oaths and Penalties of 33 Degrees of J reemasonry ... 

J do Per dozen, post paid . . . . 1 00 

Sermon on Masonry by Rev. Jas Williams, a Seceding Master Mason . IC 

do Per Dozen, post jaid . . . . 75 

Oaths and Penalties of Masonry Proved in New Berlin Trials . . 10 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . ■ . _ 1 00 

Sermon on Odd-Fellowship etc., by Rev. J. Sarver ... 10 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . . 75 

Secrecy y. S. The Family, State and Church, by Rev. Mi S. Drory . 10 

do Pei Dozen, post paid .... 

Address of Rev. J. G. Carson, D. D., on Freemasonry . _ . 10 

do - Per Dozen, post paid ..... 

General Washington Opposed to Secret Societies, by Hon. Joseph Ritner . 10 

do Per Dozen, post paid ...... 75 

Are Masonic Oaths Binding on the Initiate? by Elder A. L Post . . 05 

do Per dozen, post paid .... 50 

Grand Lodge Masonry, by Prest. Blanchard . . . .05 

do Per Dozen, post paid ..... 50 
Rev. R. T. Cross, Sermon on Secretism ..... 

do Per Dozen, post paid .... 5" 

Sermon on Secret Societies, by Rev. Daniel Dow . . - .05 

do Per Dozen, post paid ..... 50 

Freemasonry a Fourfold Conspiracy by Prest, Blanchard ... 05 

do Per Dozen, post paid . . - - .50 
Odd-Fellowship Judged, 1 aper Covers ..... 

do do Boards ..... 

Good Templarlsm Illustrated ..... 

do do Per Dozen, . . . 2 00 

Freemasonry Illustrated, an Illustrated Exposition of Seven Degrees, 640 pages, cloth 1 00 

do do do do do do do paper 60 

do do do do Three Degrees, 376 pages, cloth 75 

do do do do do do do paper 4o 


















.0 o. 

































J 









% ** 












O 



£<5* 










/ <f 






% 











A* 



V 






A 












% '-y^ 









A <t* 









v0 o 



















o5 ^> 









■, ^ 






^ v° 


















I 






• 






' 












\°' 


















x> 









1 <P 



j> ^. 



r. 















v o. 






^ <* 






<> 



A^ ' 









> 'c^ 



^% 


















"^v 



■/' V 






.> 



5. 






ft? 






*. *f 






OCT 



OO' 












X ' 



% ■' ^° 



,0 












V 






xOo 



*o 



"^ 



.0 









